WhatsApp’s long-awaited multi-device support is drawing closer to fruition, as evidenced by its appearance in the latest desktop beta version. After months of development, it seems that the Facebook-owned messaging platform is nearing readiness to introduce this highly anticipated feature.

Progress in Desktop Beta

According to a report from WABetaInfo, a reliable source for upcoming WhatsApp features, the beta version of the desktop client now includes code for multi-device support, albeit still under development. While the feature remains inactive for now, its presence in the beta version indicates ongoing progress toward its eventual release.

CEO Confirmation of Upcoming Features

Earlier in June, WhatsApp’s CEO confirmed the imminent rollout of three new features, including multi-device support, along with voice and video calls on the web, and JioMart integration. Of these, multi-device support presents the greatest technical challenge, as voice calls on the web are already operational, and JioMart integration has been implemented successfully.

Functionality of Multi-Device Support

Once activated, WhatsApp for Desktop will enable users to log in on additional devices by simply clicking on the ‘Link a new device’ button. This feature marks a significant departure from the platform’s current limitation, which restricts users to a single device. In contrast, Telegram, a rival messaging app, has long offered multi-device support, allowing users to sign in via QR codes or one-time passwords.

Enhanced Media Sharing Options

In addition to multi-device support, WhatsApp is poised to introduce an option for sending high-quality photos and videos. This feature will empower users to choose between best quality and data saver modes, ensuring that media shared via WhatsApp maintains its original quality without being compromised by compression.

Future Prospects

Although the high-quality media sharing feature is not yet active, users currently have a workaround available by selecting the ‘Document’ option while uploading media, bypassing WhatsApp’s compression process. However, once implemented, this feature will offer a more seamless and user-friendly solution for preserving media quality during transmission.

As WhatsApp continues to refine its platform and introduce new features, users can look forward to enhanced functionality and a more versatile messaging experience in the near future.