WhatsApp Testing Companion Mode for Android Tablets, Do Not Disturb API Support: Report

WhatsApp is reportedly testing two features for Android. The first feature is companion mode support for Android tablets and the second is the Do Not Disturb API for missed calls on the Google-owned operating system. Companion Mode allows users to add a secondary device to their primary phone and access it with WhatsApp and the same instant messaging account on different smartphones or tablets. The ‘Do Not Disturb’ API will now tell the user that their missed call notification has been turned off due to Do Not Disturb mode.

Just in case, as reported by WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo First feature, rolling out WhatsApp beta for Android 2.22.21.6 to some beta testers. The update brings companion mode to Android tablets and is releasing a special version of companion mode to let people link their WhatsApp account to tablets. User can use same account on 4 different devices including tablet. To link WhatsApp account to Android tablet, open WhatsApp Settings , Linked devices and scan the QR code.

The feature was first spotted by Feature Tracker earlier this year. It allows multiple users to access the same account on different Android handsets. Users do not need to log out from one phone to use WhatsApp on another phone. Furthermore, the report also states that switching to WhatsApp’s companion mode will erase locally stored messages and data.

Photo credit: WABetaInfo

The Another feature There is support for the recently spotted Do Not Disturb (DND) API, for missed calls on WhatsApp for Android. This feature is under development and WhatsApp is working to bring this feature in future updates of the app. WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.22.21.7 brings the ability to detect when DND mode is enabled. When a call is missed and the phone’s Do Not Disturb mode is enabled, the reason why the call was missed will be highlighted in the conversation and call history sections.

Earlier this year, it was reported that WhatsApp is working on the same feature for iOS using a new API for iOS 15. Information is stored locally and is not shared with WhatsApp.