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Published July 19, 2021
Author: Ash Khan

WhatsApp, the encrypted messaging software owned by Facebook, is finally providing genuine multi-device compatibility other than just being a mobile app’s development after years of consumer demand. 

Previously, all of a user’s WhatsApp traffic had to go via their phone, regardless of which device they were using, but the new restricted public beta allows users to use the app on up to four non-phone devices at the same time, even if they don’t have a phone. 

Users will be able to use WhatsApp even if their phone battery dies, and they will no longer have to deal with sluggish service owing to all data being routed via the phone. 

This meant redesigning the app’s architecture while maintaining privacy and end-to-end encryption, according to Facebook. 

“Each companion device will connect to your WhatsApp on its own, preserving the same degree of privacy and security that WhatsApp users have come to expect with end-to-end encryption. 

In a blog post, the firm stated, “Importantly, we have created new technologies to ensure end-to-end encryption while still managing to sync your data across devices – such as contact names, chat archives, starred messages, and more.” 

The new multi-device functionality is now being tested with a limited number of existing beta testers before being gradually rolled out to the rest of the world. 

WhatsApp has millions of users in Australia, and it is especially popular among Australians born overseas, according to IT consultants in research firm Roy Morgan. 

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