New Delhi, Apr 25: Messaging platform WhatsApp on Tuesday said it has introduced a feature that will allow its users to use the same WhatsApp account on multiple phones.

The feature has started rolling out globally and will be available to everyone in the coming weeks, the Meta-owned platform said.

"Today, we're improving our multi-device offering further by introducing the ability to use the same WhatsApp account on multiple phones," WhatsApp announced.

The feature, highly requested by users, will enable them to "link your phone as one of up to four additional devices, the same as when you link with WhatsApp on web browsers, tablets and desktops".

Each linked phone connects to WhatsApp independently, ensuring that a user's personal messages, media and calls are end-toend encrypted.

"...and if your primary device is inactive for a long period, we automatically log you out of all companion devices," WhatsApp said in a press note.

Linking phones as companion devices makes messaging easier. For instance, a user can opt to now switch between phones without signing out and pick up chats where they left off.

"Or if you're a small business owner, additional employees are now able to respond to customers directly from their phones under the same WhatsApp Business account," it said.

Also, WhatsApp is introducing an alternative and more accessible way to link to companion devices.

"Now you can enter your phone number on WhatsApp Web to receive a one-time code, which you can use on your phone to enable device linking, rather than having to scan a QR code. We look forward to introducing this feature to more companion devices in the future," WhatsApp informed.

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Mangaluru: Mangalore University will discontinue some postgraduate (PG) classes in its constituent colleges from the next academic year, Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.L. Dharma has announced.

Speaking to the media, he stated that due to a shortage of experienced faculty, it has become difficult to continue certain PG classes. As a result, these classes will be discontinued, and students must directly apply to Mangalore University instead of its constituent colleges.

Challenges in managing constituent colleges

The university currently manages four constituent colleges—Sandhya College, Mangalagangotri, Bannadka, and Nelyadi. However, maintaining these colleges has become challenging due to a shortage of permanent lecturers. While guest lecturers have been handling classes efficiently, the need for experienced senior faculty remains. The university has requested the government to convert these constituent colleges into government colleges.

Plan to utilise unused international hostel building

The university is considering using the unused international hostel building within its campus through public-private partnerships. With several private medical and engineering colleges in the city, discussions are underway to explore the possibility of allocating the building for their use after obtaining government approval.

Pending contractor payments

The university owes approximately ₹40 crore to contractors for various construction projects, including the hostel building. Due to financial constraints, payments will be made in phases, the vice-chancellor said.

Dispute over panchayat tax

Responding to a query about unpaid taxes to the local gram panchayat, Prof. Dharma stated that the Vishwamangala Trust, located within the university campus, has also been taxed. Since the trust operates independently of the university, discussions are ongoing with panchayat officials to exempt the international hostel and another unused building from taxation. Once a resolution is reached, pending taxes will be paid in installments.

Mangalore University secures 13 patents

The university has obtained 13 patents and aims to enhance its focus on continuous education, examinations, and research, the vice-chancellor added.