Whatsapp has just launched a new feature that has been the talk of the IT world for quite some time.
According to Facebook engineers, the new feature will allow users to utilize the highly successful service on several "non-phone" devices without having to login to the smartphone app.
The developers have verified that this feature will be offered as a beta version, with only a small group of users accessing it. This is because the developers want to find and correct any minor flaws or issues that may arise as a result of using this new feature. However, WhatsApp's main feature, end-to-end encryption, will be available while using this feature.
WhatsApp's software design, according to Facebook developers, has to be completely overhauled. They say this because the app is currently using a smartphone app as the primary device. As a result, the phone becomes the only source of truth for all user data and the sole device capable of end-to-end encrypting messages or initiating calls for another user. And the content displayed on WhatsApp Web is essentially a mirror reflection of what is displayed on the phone app.
A blog post shared by Facebook engineers on Wednesday July 14, read;
"With this new feature, you can now use WhatsApp on your phone as well as up to four other non-phone devices at the same time — even if your phone battery is dead."
WhatsApp can already be used on “companion devices,” such as PCs, but messages are routed in such a way that it will not operate if the user's smartphone is offline or has no battery.
According to the company, "the new WhatsApp multi-device design removes these impediments" by eliminating the need for a smartphone to perform every function.
WhatsApp engineers also stated that the security features of the app will remain functional under the new system.
It also stated:
“Each companion device will connect to your WhatsApp independently, maintaining the same level of privacy and security through end-to-end encryption that WhatsApp users have come to expect.”