The WhatsApp multi-account feature is now appearing in beta builds, offering users the ability to run more than one account on a single device. This move comes amid growing demand from users who juggle work and personal profiles on the same smartphone. By introducing the WhatsApp multi-account feature, Meta aims to simplify account management without resorting to workarounds.
What is the WhatsApp multi-account feature?
WhatsApp’s new feature allows users to add and switch between up to two accounts on a single device. The functionality is currently rolling out in beta for iOS users.
Some key details:
- A new “Account List” section appears in Settings (or via a button near the QR code icon) enabling the addition of another account.
- Each account maintains its own chat history, backup settings, notification tone and preference configuration — they operate independently.
- The second account can either be a new number, an existing WhatsApp account previously on another device or WhatsApp Business, or added via QR code as a companion account.
- Currently limited to two accounts and rolling out to select beta testers on iOS; no full public release date yet.
Why this feature matters
Better device-utilisation
Previously on iPhones, users who wanted to manage separate personal and work numbers had to use separate devices or rely on the WhatsApp Business app as a workaround. The multi-account feature simplifies that process.
More flexibility
Users can now handle both accounts within the same app: switching back and forth quickly without major friction. This addresses a common user pain-point.
Enhanced organisational cleaning
By segregating accounts, chats and notifications for work vs personal become easier to manage. This reduces confusion (for example: receiving a personal notification on a work account).
Step towards broader identity & account changes
The move is part of a broader update. WhatsApp is also preparing support for usernames, hinting at less reliance on phone numbers. The multi-account support fits into this identity shift. Moneycontrol
What users in India should know
- If you’re using WhatsApp on iPhone and want to try this feature, you’ll need access to the beta version (TestFlight) where the option is currently live for selected testers.
- While the feature is live in beta, the broader rollout hasn’t been confirmed publically yet — so regular users might have to wait.
- Each account still requires its own phone number. The feature doesn’t merge numbers or allow full multi-number management without separate numbers.
- Switching accounts: notifications will indicate which account received the message, which helps in avoiding replying from the wrong profile.
Potential limitations & caveats
- Because it’s a beta rollout, you may run into bugs or incomplete features. Users should be cautious if they rely heavily on one account for business.
- Some features may not yet work perfectly across both accounts (e.g., backups, linked devices) — separation of settings may still be in progress.
- On Android, while multi-account support has been available in some form for longer, the experience and exact features may differ. Gadgets 360
- Organisations that use WhatsApp for business may need to evaluate how this feature interacts with WhatsApp Business accounts, backups and compliance.
Looking ahead: What to watch
- When will the stable public release arrive? Currently only beta testers on iOS have access.
- Will WhatsApp raise the number of accounts beyond two per device?
- How will the feature integrate with other upcoming changes (e.g., usernames, cross-device linked accounts)?
- Will the experience differ across regions (India vs other countries)?
- How will backups, device linking and business tools evolve under this multi-account paradigm?
Conclusion
The WhatsApp multi-account feature is a significant usability upgrade that many users have requested for years. By allowing two distinct accounts to live side-by-side in one app — each with its own chats, settings and notifications — WhatsApp is addressing a practical need for people who juggle multiple numbers. While the rollout is currently limited to beta testers on iOS and broader availability is pending, the feature signals a clear step forward in how WhatsApp handles identity and account flexibility.
