WhatsApp is working according to its report to enable synchronization of chat history across platforms. The new change would be primarily in line with multiple device support that is speculated to debut as a feature of Linked Devices. This feature is rumored to allow you to use your WhatsApp account simultaneously on a total of four devices. It’s also different from the current scenario where WhatsApp does not sync chat history when you move your account from one device to another.
WABetaInfo reports that WhatsApp would start synchronizing chat history across platforms to enable multiple device support on their platform. It would change users smoothly from one device to another.
WhatsApp already allows synchronization of chat history when using its Web client and desktop app. However, the beta tracker WhatsApp claims that the messaging app would go ahead and also enable syncing in case of mobile devices.
It is also important to note that WhatsApp requires a Wi-Fi connection to begin the process of support for multiple devices. This would allow sharing of data from one device to another.
Once the data is shared, WABetaInfo says that Wi-Fi or Internet is not required on the primary device. This is something new, because you currently need an active internet connection on your mobile device when using WhatsApp Web or its desktop app.
If a user has removed or changed their devices while using multiple device support on WhatsApp, active calls would be notified as changes in encryption key. This would be similar to how WhatsApp notifies users when a contact changes their number.
WhatsApp is said to have cross-platform synchronization of the chat history in the works also for iPad users. This means it can enable you to use WhatsApp on your iPhone and iPad at the same time. An iPad version of WhatsApp has also been in plans for a while.
Likewise, it is said that the cross-platform synchronizing functionality works between desktop and mobile devices. However, there is no clarity on whether WhatsApp can enable syncing between Android and iPhone devices. This is of course very important in case you have both Android and iPhone and want to sync your WhatsApp data.
WABetaInfo mentions that WhatsApp previously worked on converting the iOS database to the one that is compatible with its Android client. So it is safe to expect sync across Android and iPhone devices as well.
WhatsApp has not made any confirmation about the arrival of its multiple device support which has been part of the rumor mill at least since July last year. However, their references appeared in recent beta releases – with the latest one showing Linked Devices as their official name.
In 2020, will WhatsApp get the killer feature that every Indian is waiting for? We discussed this on Orbital, our weekly technology podcast, which allows you to subscribe via Apple Podcasts or RSS, download the episode, or simply hit the play button below.
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