Yes, it is possible to use WhatsApp on both your phone and computer at the same time. WhatsApp has apps available for iOS, Android, Windows and Mac devices that allow you to send and receive messages on multiple devices.
How does using WhatsApp on multiple devices work?
WhatsApp has introduced a new ‘multi-device’ feature that allows you to use WhatsApp on up to 4 linked devices simultaneously. To use WhatsApp on multiple devices:
- Update to the latest version of WhatsApp on your phone
- Open WhatsApp Settings > Linked Devices > Link a Device
- Scan the QR code with your secondary device (computer/tablet) to link it
Once linked, your phone will act as the primary device that others send messages to. Linked devices like your computer will receive messages and sync conversation histories from your phone. You can send and receive messages directly from linked devices even if your phone is offline.
Can I use WhatsApp Web and app on computer together?
Yes, you can use both WhatsApp Web and the desktop app on your computer at the same time. They function independently and do not interfere with each other.
WhatsApp Web is the web browser version that mirrors your phone’s app. The desktop app is a standalone program that also syncs with your phone but has more features like native notifications and better keyboard shortcuts.
Having both apps gives you flexibility depending on your needs. For example, you can use WhatsApp Web when you quickly need to check messages and the desktop app for prolonged chats.
What happens if I get a WhatsApp call?
When you get an incoming WhatsApp call, it will ring on both your phone and computer apps simultaneously. You can choose to answer the call on either device.
If you answer the call on one device, it will be dismissed and stop ringing on the other. The ability to transfer active calls between devices is not supported.
Can I see my chat history on computer?
Yes, your full WhatsApp chat history is synced across your phone and linked computers. Any messages you send or receive will be visible on all devices.
One caveat is that if you delete specific chats or messages on one device, they will also be deleted from your chat history on other linked devices.
Is my WhatsApp data secure on computer?
Yes, WhatsApp maintains end-to-end encryption for messages sent between your phone and linked devices. This ensures your chats remain private and secure.
Some additional security measures when using WhatsApp on computer:
- Set screen lock on your computer to prevent unauthorized access
- Log out of WhatsApp Web or close the desktop app when not in use
- Use antivirus software and a firewall on your computer
What are the disadvantages of using WhatsApp on multiple devices?
Some potential downsides to keep in mind:
- Battery drain on your phone – Constant syncing may use more battery
- Message reliability – Spotty internet may interrupt syncing between devices
- No native apps for iPad or Linux yet
- Notifications can be disruptive if you get a lot of messages
Can I link multiple computers?
Currently, you can only link up to one computer at a time to your WhatsApp account. However, you can unlink a device and link a new computer at any time.
To unlink a computer:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone > Linked Devices
- Tap on the computer you want to unlink
- Tap ‘Unlink Device’ to confirm
Now you can scan the QR code on a new computer to link it.
How many devices can use WhatsApp?
Here are the maximum numbers of devices that can be linked to one WhatsApp account:
| Device | Max Linked |
|---|---|
| Android phones | 1 |
| iPhones | 1 |
| Tablets | 1 |
| Computers (Desktop + Web) | 1 |
So in total, you can actively use WhatsApp on up to 4 devices simultaneously per account.
Can I link WhatsApp on iPad?
Unfortunately, you cannot directly link an iPad to your WhatsApp account yet. However, there is a workaround:
- On your iPhone – go to Settings > Linked Devices
- On your iPad – open WhatsApp Web in the Safari browser
- Scan the QR code on WhatsApp Web using your iPhone camera
This will link and mirror WhatsApp on your iPhone to the iPad via WhatsApp Web. You can access all your chats and messages on the iPad this way.
Conclusion
Using WhatsApp on multiple devices offers great flexibility to see and send messages across phone and computers. Just take care to manage notifications and syncing properly.
Linking up to 4 devices simultaneously is possible with WhatsApp’s multi-device feature. Keep your chats secure by enabling device locks and logging out when not using them.