WhatsApp, a popular messaging platform owned by Meta, has recently introduced a new feature allowing users to have two different accounts on a single device.
This development, announced in October of the previous year, is particularly beneficial for Android users who no longer need multiple devices to manage various accounts.
To set up a second WhatsApp account, users must possess either a separate phone number or a device capable of supporting multiple SIM cards. Even if an account is idle, it will still receive alerts for messages and phone calls, and users can effortlessly switch between accounts to access the content.
Users with dual accounts on a device can personalize each profile by setting a profile picture, adding an about text, adjusting notification settings, and configuring privacy preferences. This feature is exclusively available for Android users and supports two accounts per device.
How to create a second WhatsApp account?
Step 1: Open WhatsApp
Open the WhatsApp application on your Android device. You can still need to install the Google Play Store if you haven’t installed it yet.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings
Tap on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner of the screen to access the menu. From the menu, select “Settings.”
Step 3: Select Account
Within the Settings menu, find and select the “Account” option.
Step 4: Add Account
Look for the “Add Account” or “Multi-account” option, depending on your WhatsApp version. Tap on it to initiate the process of adding a second account.
Step 5: Agree to Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
You’ll be prompted to agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Read through them and, if you agree, proceed by tapping the “Agree” or “Accept” button.
Step 6: Enter Country and Phone Number
Choose your country from the list and enter the phone number associated with the second WhatsApp account. Make sure to include the international country code.
Step 7: Verification
WhatsApp will send a 6-digit verification code via SMS or phone to the provided number. Enter this code to verify your phone number and proceed.
Step 8: Set Up Profile
After verification, you’ll be prompted to set up the profile for the second Account. Enter a name, and optionally, add a profile picture and provide information in the “About” field.
Step 9: Switching Between Accounts
Access the menu by tapping the three vertical dots in the top-right corner to switch accounts. If the “Switch accounts” option is available, tap it to switch between your accounts.
Removing an Account
To remove an account from the device, go to Settings, select Account, and tap “Remove Account.” Confirm the removal, noting that any data not backed up will be lost.
Deleting an Account
For those looking to delete an account entirely, go to Settings, select Account, and choose “Delete Account. “Users must navigate to Settings, select Account, and tap Add Account.