WhatsApp has started a wider roll-out of the multi-device support feature. It was part of limited internal testing for quite some time but is now available for the masses. It should be noted that it is still in the beta testing phase. The only difference is that anyone on Android and iOS can make use of the functionality.

The multi-device feature basically allows users to link their WhatsApp accounts with multiple devices (up to four) and use them without the need for keeping the primary device connected to the internet. It means let's say you want to use WhatsApp Web, you will now be able to send and receive messages through the web browser without the need for keeping your smartphone online. This is something that was not possible earlier. Previously, if you disconnected your phone from the internet, you would stop receiving new messages on the web as well.

As for how to use the WhatsApp multi-device feature, the first step is to open the application and visit Settings. The next step is to tap on the Linked Devices option. It will then show you a list of devices that are linked with your account. If you do not have any, it will simply show the option to link a new device. The process for linking a device is simple where you need to scan a QR code and that's it.

It is important to note that the ability to send/receive messages on a secondary device when the primary device is offline will be for up to 14 days. It means you will have to connect your main device to the internet at least once in two weeks. Another thing to keep in mind is that you cannot link another Android smartphone/tablet or an iPhone as a secondary device yet. It is limited to WhatsApp web, desktop, and portal for the time being.