WhatsApp users can now leverage the power of Companion Mode to access their account on multiple devices, enhancing convenience and flexibility. This innovative feature allows for seamless transitions between devices, whether you’re replacing one or simply want to stay connected on the go.
What is WhatsApp Companion Mode?
WhatsApp Companion Mode is a cutting-edge feature enabling multi-device access for users. This mode requires at least two devices: a primary device (which has your active WhatsApp account) and one or more companion devices that will be linked to this account. The beauty of this setup is that it ensures all your messages and chat history are shared across these devices, providing a unified experience.
When you check the Settings on a companion device, it will indicate: This is a linked device. Importantly, your messages remain secure through end-to-end encryption, meaning that while multiple devices access the same account, each device keeps its chat history secure and separate.
As soon as a companion device is online, it retrieves the latest messages, regardless of whether the primary phone is logged in or not. However, this connection is temporary and will require you to reconnect every 14 days by logging back into your primary device.
You can link up to four devices in total, including both Android and iOS devices. It’s crucial to note, however, that you cannot link a WhatsApp account across different operating systems (iOS & Android).
How to Use WhatsApp on Two or More Phones (or Tablets)
To get started with Companion Mode and link up to four devices, follow these steps:
Step 1: Link the Companion Device
Begin on your primary phone where your WhatsApp account is active. If you are an Android user, tap on the three-dot menu, then select Linked devices followed by Link a device. For iPhone users, navigate to Settings > Linked devices > Link device.
Step 2: Install WhatsApp on the Companion Device
On your new phone (whether Android or iOS), download WhatsApp and select your preferred language, then click Agree and Continue. On the following screen, instead of entering your phone number, tap the three-dot menu and choose Link as companion device.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
A QR code will appear on the companion device; simply use the camera on your primary phone to scan this code.
Alternative Option
If QR codes aren’t your method of choice, you can select Link with phone number instead on your primary device. This requires entering a numeric code that the companion device provides.
Once completed, your primary phone will indicate the active devices linked to your account. This allows you the convenience of managing multiple devices effectively. But remember, if another WhatsApp account exists on the companion device, ensure to back up that chat history before proceeding.
Disabling a WhatsApp Account on Companion Devices
If you wish to deactivate WhatsApp on a companion device, navigate to the Linked devices section on your primary device. From there, selecting any active device will bring up a pop-up where you can click Log out to remove it temporarily or permanently.
Alternatively, you can log out directly from the companion device’s Account page by selecting Log out.
After logging out, the companion device will show a status saying You have been logged out. This effectively wipes all local chat data, acting as a security measure against unauthorized access. To regain access to your chats on the secondary device, simply log back into your WhatsApp account on your primary device—note that you cannot delete the WhatsApp account on the companion device directly.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Using WhatsApp on Two or More Phones
WhatsApp’s Companion Mode opens up a world of possibilities for users, and I personally find it invaluable. Here are some notable advantages:
- Freedom from your main phone: This feature means you don’t need to carry your primary device with you everywhere, reducing the potential for loss or damage.
- Enhanced control over access: The ability to remotely wipe the app from another device means that you can maintain security while enjoying the flexibility of multiple devices.
- Your contacts remain oblivious: All your devices operate simultaneously, and your contacts won’t have to know about your additional devices, ensuring seamless communication.
- Support for business operations: For small to medium-sized enterprises, this mode allows multiple agents to manage customer inquiries on the same account, improving response times.
Importantly, Companion Mode is fundamentally different from WhatsApp Web or the desktop applications, as it keeps your WhatsApp account continuously active across devices without the need for frequent sign-ins.
However, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:
- 14-day disconnect: If your primary device is lost or becomes inaccessible for more than 14 days, regaining access to your WhatsApp account on your companion devices becomes problematic.
- Backup needs: Always remember to back up your chat history to avoid losing important conversations. Utilizing services like Google Drive can be a lifesaver.
Stay vigilant about security—be aware of common scams targeting WhatsApp users and safeguard your accounts accordingly.
Image credit: Pixabay. All screenshots by Sayak Boral.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does WhatsApp Companion Mode keep my chats secure?
Chats in Companion Mode remain protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your messages are securely handled across all linked devices.
2. What happens if I don’t log in to my primary device every 14 days?
If you fail to log in to your primary device within that period, the connection will be temporarily disabled, and you will lose access to your messages until you reconnect.
3. Can I link a WhatsApp account that is already active on another device?
No, you must first log out of the existing WhatsApp account on the companion device to link it to your primary account.
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