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WhatsApp is working on a feature that seems long overdue. The TestFlight beta now supports multiple accounts on a single iPhone for the first time. This new feature clearly shows the direction the app is heading: more flexibility, fewer workarounds, and a clean separation of different phone numbers.
Many users regularly switch between two WhatsApp accounts. Often, this involves private and work chats, or separate numbers for different purposes. Until now, this was a cumbersome solution. Frequently, WhatsApp Business was used, or even a second device. The new beta version puts an end to this. It introduces native multi-account support directly within the app. While still in testing, the implementation already appears remarkably polished.
Multiple accounts on one iPhone in the WhatsApp Beta
The current WhatsApp TestFlight version allows two synced accounts on one device. Previously, there were only hints of this in the code. Now the feature is visible to some beta testers. According to WABetaInfo, a new section called "Account List" appears in the settings menu. In some cases, an additional icon is also available next to the QR code icon.
This account list allows you to add another account directly within the app. No second device or WhatsApp Business installation is required. Setup is flexible. A new account can be linked to a phone number that has never been registered with WhatsApp before. Existing accounts can also be added, regardless of whether they were previously used in WhatsApp Business or active on another device. If you want to link a companion account that exists on a different phone, you can simply add it via QR code. WhatsApp will then automatically synchronize messages and settings with your primary device.
Separate settings for each WhatsApp account
Each account retains its own configuration. This includes chat history, backup settings, and notification sounds. Settings in one account do not affect the other. WhatsApp also indicates which of the two accounts a new message comes from. This reduces confusion and keeps things clear.
The multi-account feature complements another planned innovation. WhatsApp is currently preparing support for usernames. This could make managing multiple accounts even easier in the future.
How far along the tests are
There is no official launch date. However, the feature already appears to be quite advanced. Therefore, its rollout to all users shouldn't be too far off.
WhatsApp: Two accounts directly on one iPhone
The beta version shows that WhatsApp aims to significantly simplify its use on iPhones. Managing two accounts will soon be possible without any workarounds. Separate settings for each account, clear notifications, and easy setup will make the app more versatile. Once the feature is officially rolled out, WhatsApp will offer more control and less hassle in everyday use. (Image: Shutterstock / Diego Thomazini)
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