Why Xiaomi with two? SIM-The cards do not allow the second WhatsApp to be installed in the standard way?
Xiaomi smartphone owners with support for two physical SIM-Cards often face a paradoxical situation: when you try to establish a second WhatsApp account through an official application, the system blocks registration, citing βone device, one accountβ, the reason lies in the policy of Meta (the owner of the messenger) and the features of the shell. MIUI.
The fact is that WhatsApp is not tied to the SIM-map, and to IMEI Even if you have two active SIMs, the messenger defaults to only see one number as the primary number, but Xiaomi offers several workarounds, both built into the firmware and using third-party tools. The main thing is to choose a method that will not lead to the blocking of the account due to violation of WhatsApp rules.
In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to install the second Watsap on Redmi, POCO or Mi with two. SIM-maps, including official functions MIUI, App cloning and alternative messengers, with particular attention to the nuances for models 2023-2026 (for example, Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T), Where the logic of dual sims has changed.
Method 1: Built-in dual applications in MIUI
The safest and most recommended method is to use the standard Dual Apps option available on most Xiaomi smartphones with MIUI 10 and later, which creates an isolated copy of the app that runs parallel to the main version.
To activate the second WhatsApp:
- Open Settings β Applications β Double Apps.
- Find WhatsApp in the list and turn on the switch next to it.
- Confirm the creation of a copy - the system will automatically install the second messenger with an icon in the form of two folded squares.
Important: on some models (POCO F4, Redmi K50) the option of dual applications may be hidden.
- π± Update the firmware to the latest version MIUI (relevant for devices 2022-2023).
Update MIUI to the latest version
Check the space available (requires ~100MB)
Make sure the second one is SIM-card
Make a backup copy of the chats of the main account-->
β οΈ Note: When using dual apps, both WhatsApp accounts will work independently, but notifications may be duplicated. To avoid this, turn off alerts for one of the apps in Settings β Notifications.
Method 2: Cloning through βMode to Workβ (MIUI 14+)
Starting with MIUI 14 (installed on Xiaomi 13, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and later), the Work Profile feature, which allows you to create isolated profiles with individual copies of applications, is more reliable than Dual apps, because it uses standard Android mechanisms.
Instructions for setting:
- Go to Settings β Special Opportunities β Mode for work.
- Click Create a profile and follow the system prompts.
- After creating a profile, open Google Play in working mode and install WhatsApp.
- Register a second account with a different number.
Advantages of this method:
- π Complete isolation of data between profiles (chats, media files do not overlap).
- π± Support for notifications without duplication.
- π Ability to quickly switch between profiles through the notification panel.
| Criteria | Dual annexes | Mode to work |
|---|---|---|
| Support for MIUI | MIUI 10 | Only MIUI 14+ |
| Data isolation | Partial | Complete. |
| Notifications | Could be duplicated | Separate |
| Root is required. | No. | No. |
π‘
If WhatsApp is not installed after you create your working profile, check if the βInstall Unknown Appsβ option for Google Play is enabled in working mode (Settings β Apps β Special Access).
Method 3: Install WhatsApp Business as a second messenger
The official WhatsApp Business can be used as a second account if you donβt need all the features of the standard messenger, which is suitable for those who do business or want to separate personal and work correspondence.
How to set up:
- Install WhatsApp Business from Google Play.
- When registering, enter the number two SIM-map.
- Set up a profile (you can specify the company name or pseudonym).
Limitations of the method:
- π΅ No way to call WhatsApp Business (Chat only).
- π Business statistics and tools may be superfluous for personal use.
- π It is impossible to transfer chats from regular WhatsApp without a backup.
Dual Apps (Dual Apps)
The work mode (Work Profile)
WhatsApp Business
Another method-->
β οΈ Note: If you use WhatsApp Business for personal purposes, please note that Meta may block your account for violating the rules of use.
Method 4: Use of third-party launchers (for advanced users)
If built-in methods are not suitable, you can use third-party launchers that support the cloning of applications, for example:
- Parallel Space creates a virtual space with copies of applications.
- 2Accounts is a specialized tool for duplicate messengers.
- Island (requires root) β isolates applications in the sandbox.
Instructions for Parallel Space:
- Install Parallel Space from Google Play.
- Add WhatsApp to the list of cloned apps.
- Open a copy and register a second account.
Warnings:
- π‘οΈ Account lock risk β Meta can recognize virtual environment as a breach.
- π’ Possible lags and slowing down due to emulation.
- π Increased battery consumption (up to 15-20% for 1 hour of active use).
What if WhatsApp has blocked an account because of Parallel Space?
Method 5: Manual cloning through ADB (for power users)
This method requires knowledge of ADB commands and is only suitable for users willing to work with the console, and allows you to create a full copy of WhatsApp without using third-party applications.
Step-by-step:
- Activate Developer Mode on Xiaomi: Settings β About Phone β MIUI Version (click 7 times)
- Enable USB debugging in Settings β Additional β For developers.
- Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command: adb shell pm install --user 0 -i "com.android.vending" -r "com.whatsapp.w4b" (this will set WhatsApp Business as a second account).
- To clone a standard WhatsApp, use: adb shell cmd package install-existing com.whatsapp
Warnings:
- π» Requires a PC with installed drivers ADB and Fastboot.
- π§ Incorrect commands can disrupt the system.
- π΅ On some Xiaomi models, for example, POCO X3 Pro) this method is blocked by firmware.
π‘
Use ADB only if other methods fail, and this method can cause data loss or MIUI failures if performed incorrectly.
What to do if the second WhatsApp is not working?
Even after the second WhatsApp is successfully installed, there may be errors, and letβs look at the typical problems and solutions:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| No SMS with code comes in. | Blocking by the operator or WhatsApp | Try a voice call or change it. SIM-map |
| The app flies off at launch | Data conflict or incompatibility with MIUI | Clear cache and data in Settings β Applications |
| Notifications don't come in. | Limitations on energy conservation | Add WhatsApp to exceptions in Settings β Battery |
| It is impossible to register a number | The number is already linked to another account. | Delete your old account through Settings β Account β Delete my account |
If none of the methods worked, check:
- πΆ Quality of communication β second WhatsApp may not register due to weak signal.
- π Date and time on the phone β incorrect settings can block registration.
- π WhatsApp Version β Install the latest version from Google Play or official website.