There's some disappointing news about multi-device support in WhatsApp

All apps and services have missing features that users are begging for. In the case of Twitter, for instance, it's the option of editing tweets. When it comes to WhatsApp, though, it is the ability to use the chat app on more that one device that has topped people's wish lists for some time.

Pleasingly, Facebook has listened. We've known for a while now that multi-device support is coming to WhatsApp, but that day is growing ever closer. So close, in fact, that the feature is on the verge of starting public beta testing – but we already know of at least one limitation that will disappoint people.

• WhatsApp is getting a crafty new way to verify your identity
• New beta reveals more info about upcoming end-to-end encrypted backups in WhatsApp
• WhatsApp wants to make business messaging faster and easier

The ever-reliable WABetaInfo has learned a great deal about what we can expect from multi-device support, starting off with the fact that beta testing should start with Android and iOS users within a couple of months. When it launches, you will be able to link up to four devices your WhatsApp account. What's more, there is no need for the main device to have an active internet connection which will help to free up more usage scenarios.

But there's some less than positive news – at least about the beta testing period. While it will be possible to use WhatsApp on up to four devices, multi-device support will initially be limited to multi-device beta for WhatsApp Web, WhatsApp Desktop and Portal platforms.

The more the merrier

A note about the beta program points out:

After your devices are linked, your phone will no longer need to stay online to use WhatsApp on web, desktop or Portal. Up to 4 additional devices and one phones can be used at once.

Of course, this is only the first outing for multi-device support. While this initial beta has limitations, this will not necessarily be the case when the feature gets a full launch. There's also another limitation which – although not entirely surprising – will limit beta users' ability to test the feature to its fullest extent.

WhatsApp says that beta users will not be able to message or call users who are running an outdated version of the app on their phone.

But while there are limitations, there are still some exciting times ahead, and WhatsApp is about to become even more useful.

• Find out how to use WhatsApp dark mode