Facebook’s family of apps includes Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Facebook and Messenger can both be accessed via desktop and mobile. Instagram allowed the same, but it only recently allowed posting feeds on its desktop version. WhatsApp, which was initially designed for mobile devices, followed suit. It has allowed audio and video calls via desktop since last March. Today, WhatsApp tests multi-device capability.
WhatsApp users have been persistently requesting multi-device capability for several years. Today, the platform is beta testing multi-device capability to a limited number of users. WhatsApp users included in the test can now log in to their WhatsApp account using their smartphone and four other non-phone devices. Each connection still maintains end-to-end encryption to promote the account’s privacy and safety. It will also be using “Automatic Device Verification” to establish a trusted connection.
WhatsApp tests multi-device capability on 14 July 2021.
Implications for Marketers:
WhatsApp’s multi-device capability can facilitate more connections within the messaging app. For marketers, this can mean a larger reach and more manageable WhatsApp accounts. Allowing access to WhatsApp profiles on different devices can attract users who use multiple gadgets. At the same time, it can help brands post updates on multiple devices.