How to run two WhatsApp accounts on a Mac

By default, macOS and WhatsApp only let one copy of WhatsApp run at a time — so to use a second number you'd normally have to log out and back in. Parallel Spaces fixes that by running a fully isolated second copy of WhatsApp, with its own private storage. Here's how to set up dual WhatsApp on your Mac in under two minutes.

Step by step

1. Install and open Parallel Spaces — get it free from the Mac App Store and launch it.
2. Create a WhatsApp space — pick the WhatsApp desktop app, or add WhatsApp Web as a web app space.
3. Name and badge it — call it "Work" or "Personal", give it a colour and badge so a glance at the Dock tells you which is which.
4. Launch and link your second number — open the space and scan the QR code with your second phone's WhatsApp. Both accounts now run at the same time, in separate windows.

Why this is better than the workarounds

• Truly separate logins. Each space has its own storage — no shared session, no accidental cross-posting.
• Native notifications for both. You won't miss a message on either number.
• No virtual machine. It's the real WhatsApp, running at full speed.
• Add more than two. Need a third or fourth number? Just make another space.

Frequently asked

Can you run two WhatsApp accounts on a Mac?

Yes. WhatsApp allows only one running copy by default, but Parallel Spaces creates an isolated second copy so two numbers stay signed in side by side.

Desktop app or WhatsApp Web?

Either works. Multi-instance the desktop app, or add WhatsApp Web as a web app space with native notifications.

Is it free?

Parallel Spaces is free on the Mac App Store, and so is WhatsApp. No VM, no subscription.

Get Parallel Spaces — free on the Mac App Store

Also run dual Telegram or multiple Slack accounts · see the full app list.