WhatsApp is set to enhance its functionality by enabling users to share status updates from linked devices. According to insights from a feature tracker, the Meta-owned messaging platform will soon support status updates from its web client and companion devices. Users participating in beta testing for WhatsApp Web and WhatsApp for Android can already explore this new feature on their secondary devices. With the companion mode, WhatsApp users can access their chats on up to four additional devices, even if their primary smartphone is offline.
Following an update to WhatsApp Web beta version 2.2353.59, the feature tracker WABetaInfo reported the emergence of a new capability in the web client. This allows users to publish status updates from the Status section. Beta users can now click the green icon adjacent to their profile picture next to My Status and select either Photos & Videos or Text to upload their status.
The capacity to share status updates will also extend to companion devices. WABetaInfo recently highlighted this new feature for users who have updated to WhatsApp beta version 2.24.1.4 for Android. With this update, users will be able to add status updates directly from their companion devices. Currently, linked devices let users chat with their contacts, and WhatsApp appears to be gradually increasing the features available on these platforms.
Gadgets 360 confirmed the functionality of sharing status updates from a companion device on WhatsApp for Android after upgrading to the latest beta version. However, the timeline for rolling out this feature to all users remains unannounced. Additionally, the functionality is anticipated to be available for iOS companion devices shortly.
In a related development, WhatsApp has begun testing a new companion device: WhatsApp for iPad. Beta testers can now access the app on Apple tablets through the TestFlight program. It is important to note that the current beta programs for both Android and iOS are fully subscribed, and no new users can sign up for WhatsApp beta updates at this time.
