WHATSAPP users can finally access two accounts on the same phone.
Owner Mark Zuckerberg, 39, announced the major change, which has been high on the request list for years.
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It means people will no longer have to log out each time or carry two phones, a common problem for those with a personal phone and a work phone.
You’ll need a smartphone that accepts more than one SIM card or eSIM for it to work.
eSIM allows users to have two phone numbers running from the same device without physical SIM cards, instead they’re virtually added onto the handset from network providers who support it.
eSIM is also great for those travelling, as you can get hold of a second SIM plan with a local provider rather than using your main SIM – which can cost a fortune – or having to find a shop to buy one when you land.
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But eSIM is still relatively unknown to most consumers.
Apple has made US iPhone handsets eSIM only while the rest of the world maintains a “dual” set-up, meaning you can have a traditional SIM card and eSIM simultaneously.
So WhatsApp’s move could come as a much-needed boost to eSIM.
The change may also deter people from downloading WhatsApp rip-off apps which are banned.
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“As a reminder, only use the official WhatsApp and don’t download imitations or fake versions as a way of getting more accounts on your phone,” WhatsApp owner Meta said.
“Your messages are only secure and private when using the official WhatsApp.”
WhatsApp Multiple Accounts is coming to Android devices only for now.
How to add a second account on WhatsApp
To have a second WhatsApp account you must have a second phone number and SIM card, or a phone that accepts multi-SIM or eSIM.
Open WhatsApp and go to Settings.
Tap the arrow next to your name.
Go to Add account.
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