It’s been a minute (and two whole years) since WhatsApp for Android unlocked multi-account support, but now it’s Apple’s turn. According to WABetaInfo, Meta has begun testing out the new feature — spotted within the TestFlight beta programme, inside version 25.34.10.72.
WhatsApp is balancing the accounts
Like the feature on Android, users will be limited to two separate accounts on the same device. There’s no telling whether Meta will work to up that figure now that it’s gotten the feature for iOS out from under its feet. Still, the addition of even a second account is a huge win for those who’d prefer not to make use of WhatsApp Business.
Nothing is stopping iOS users (the ones in the beta, anyway) from adding a fresh phone number (or even an old one) into the mix, not yet registered on the database. The accounts remain completely separate, with different names, profile pictures, settings, and chat histories — if the user so wishes. It appears that Meta will also make it clearer which account notifications are tied to, to clear up any confusion, regardless of the account signed in.
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Users taking part in the beta can whip up a second account by visiting Settings and hitting ‘Account List‘, or the new button located next to the QR code icon. Tap on ‘Add account‘ and you’ll be transported to a page to add your new display name and profile picture. Swapping between the two is just as simple.
Once Meta can be sure the feature is working as intended, it’ll begin turning up on iOS devices not enrolled in the beta programme. There’s no telling when that might be, unfortunately, and considering the lengthy wait iPhone users had to endure to get the feature in beta, it could be another few minutes years.
