Meta is bolstering multi-device support for WhatsApp by releasing a new WhatsApp app for Windows. This latest update is not only supposed to launch faster, but now allows video calls for up to eight people and 32 for audio calls.
WhatsApp is one of the largest go-to text/video messaging platforms and is a critical business for Meta, so it’s no surprise that the company continues to update and strengthen WhatsApp’s cross-platform capabilities. The new Windows app brings greater parity with the mobile app, supporting end-to-end encrypted video calls with 8 users and audio calls with 32 users (which Mark Zuckerberg mentioned simultaneously on Facebook). Now, those numbers are a far cry from what Zoom or Skype are offering (100 users for video/audio), but Meta promises to increase WhatsApp’s user cap over time. This bodes well for those looking for options for their business or great social appeals in the future.
Meta also says it has made improvements to cross-device linking/syncing. It’s supposed to be easier and faster for users to connect up to four devices simultaneously to access their chats.
It looks like Meta is also boosting the user experience across multiple devices and platforms. Mac users got a WhatsApp beta client optimized for M-series chipsets. Android tablets aren’t forgotten either: Zuckerberg’s team is testing a version that’s also optimized for the tablet environment. Unfortunately, those looking for an official Linux app will have to keep waiting.
In case you were wondering, using WhatsApp on multiple devices at the same time does not require a phone number for each device. Yes, a mobile number is required to create a new WhatsApp account, but the following add-on devices only require a quick visit here to connect more devices.
The new updated whatsapp The Windows client is being deployed in the Microsoft store.
