WhatsApp has become the go-to platform for both business and personal communication.
And, it's no surprise that many of us need more than one phone number for WhatsApp.
So, what exactly is a virtual number for WhatsApp, and how can you get one?
Let's explore seven providers offering WhatsApp virtual numbers.
A virtual number for WhatsApp is a phone number that is not directly associated with a physical mobile phone or SIM card.
Instead, it is provided through online service providers and operates online.
This type of number can be used to register and manage a WhatsApp account, just like a regular phone number.
Depending on the provider, virtual numbers can come with additional features like voicemail, call forwarding, and text messaging capabilities, which we will explore in more detail later.
Now that we understand a virtual number for WhatsApp, the next question is, "How to get a virtual phone number for WhatsApp?" It's a simpler process than you think.
Here are the steps to getting a virtual phone number for WhatsApp:
Step 1: Choose a Provider: Find a service that gives virtual numbers. Several such providers are available, some of which we will discuss later.
Step 2: Create an Account: Go to the website of your chosen service, download their app, and sign up by following their instructions.
Step 3: Insert Your Area Code: The app will generate virtual phone numbers; you can choose the one you prefer.
Example Virtual Number Format for USA: +1 (Area Code) 555 123 4567 Here, "+1" represents the international dialing code for the United States. "(Area Code)" can be a city-specific code, such as "212" for New York. The following part is a 7 or 8-digit number.
Step 5: Set Up WhatsApp: Enter the virtual number you just got when it asks for your phone number.
Step 6: Verify Your Number: WhatsApp will send a code to your virtual number. Check the app or website of your virtual number provider to get this code and enter it into WhatsApp.
Step 7: Start Using WhatsApp: Once your number is verified, your WhatsApp is ready to use with your new virtual number.
These steps generally show how to get a virtual number for WhatsApp. To support these steps, we have shown how to get a virtual number with Hushed as an example below:
Firstly, I started by signing up for a Hushed account and providing basic details like my email address.
Secondly, After creating my account, Hushed presented three country options for phone numbers. I selected the United States as an example. 🙂
Next, Hushed showed me six different virtual number options. I could view more numbers or proceed with the one I prefer.
After this step, you can choose a plan that suits your needs, such as a pay-as-you-go or unlimited plan.
Then, open WhatsApp and enter the Hushed number during the verification process. You receive a verification code via text or call in the Hushed interface.
Lastly, you can enter this verification code into WhatsApp to finalize the setup.
If you're still unsure about using a virtual number for WhatsApp, here are some reasons to consider it.
Privacy Protection: A virtual number offers you privacy. It allows you to keep your number hidden.
Separation of Personal and Business Communications: if you're using WhatsApp for business purposes, a virtual number lets you separate your personal and business communications.
Professional Appearance: It can increase brand credibility, a professional contact number is often associated with established and trustworthy businesses.
Global Accessibility: a virtual number lets you access WhatsApp from anywhere in the world. This is especially useful for travelers or those living abroad.
Local Presence: You establish a local presence by choosing a phone code that matches your target audience's location.
Here's a helpful guide comparing seven notable virtual phone providers.
This table is crafted to assist you in finding the right fit for your communication needs.
Whether you're an individual, a small business owner, or a frequent traveler.
Provider | Best For | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Google Voice | Individuals and small businesses in the U.S. | Cross-platform, browser flexibility, international availability, SIP link option, comprehensive communication | International calls incur charges, limited to certain regions |
Talkatone | U.S. residents needing free chat and messaging, especially off cellular | Free U.S. phone number, free texting, WiFi/cell data calls, widespread adoption | Limited features, potential connectivity issues, mainly for personal use |
Virtual Phone | Travelers and international businesses | Softphone & call management, international reach, live chat & IVR, SMS & call scheduling | Pricing varies based on usage, may be complex for small-scale users |
Grasshopper | Small and medium-sized businesses | Call blasting, voice studio, international calling, extra numbers | Higher cost for small businesses, limited advanced features |
Phone.com | Diverse businesses needing a comprehensive communication toolkit | Versatile communication options, advanced call handling, mobile integration, customizable voicemail | Some features may be unnecessary for very small businesses, additional costs may apply for add-ons |
Hushed | Individuals and businesses needing multiple numbers for various needs | Anonymous calling, SMS and MMS, multiple numbers, custom voicemail greetings, call forwarding | Prepaid plans may be inconvenient for long-term use, limited international options |
Blacktel | Individuals and businesses needing short-term number use | Calls + SMS, WhatsApp SIM, Travel SIM, Prepaid Phone Number, suited for temporary or anonymous use | Limited long-term usability, mainly focused on temporary solutions |
Best for individuals and small businesses in the U.S. seeking an easy, scalable solution for their communication needs.
Google Voice offers both free and paid services.
You can get a free US phone number, make free US calls, and send messages over Wi-Fi.
However, international calls incur charges, and paid plans are available for those who need more advanced features.
Top Features of Google Voice
Pricing:
Best for anyone in the US who needs a simple, free way to chat and message, especially when you're off cellular.
Talkatone offers a free U.S. phone number for unlimited texting and calling within the U.S. without using cell phone minutes.
Perfect for travelers, this device completely eliminates roaming charges and lets you stay connected wherever WiFi is available.
Top Features of Talkatone:
Pricing:
Best for travelers and international businesses who need versatile numbers worldwide.
Virtual Phone offers a versatile business communication solution, including a Softphone for remote calling and features like Live Chat & IVR.
While some features are free, the service is primarily designed for businesses, and pricing varies based on usage.
Top Features of Virtual Phone
Pricing:
Best for small and medium-sized businesses looking for an intuitive phone system that grows with them.
Grasshopper is a business phone system designed to simplify your communication needs.
It is cost-effective, works with your existing phone, and provides 24/7 support, making it a practical choice for small business owners.
Top Features of Grasshopper
Pricing
Best for diverse businesses seeking a comprehensive and adaptable communication toolkit.
Phone.com is a business communications company that offers a wide range of features such as voice, video, and conferencing to suit various business styles.
Top Features of Phone.com
Pricing
Best for individuals and businesses who want to have different numbers for a variety of needs, complete with extra messaging features.
Hushed keeps your communication flexible, offering multiple numbers with customizable plans, whether texting or sharing pictures.
Top Features of Hushed
Pricing
Best for anyone who needs a phone number for a short time.
Blacktel provides temporary numbers with virtual SIM technology when you need to keep things private.
Top Features of Blacktel
Pricing
When selecting a virtual number provider for WhatsApp, it's vital to examine several key aspects.
Ensure the provider covers the country or region where you plan to communicate with clients or colleagues.
Look into the range of features they offer, such as voicemail and call forwarding, to see if they align with your needs.
The provider's reputation and user reviews are also crucial, as they offer insights into their reliability and customer service quality.
Additionally, consider the cost factor. While free plans are available, they may come with limitations and might not be suitable for professional use.
With various reliable providers available, finding a virtual number for WhatsApp is generally straightforward.
To verify WhatsApp without a code:
Use 'Call Me': Tap the 'Call Me' option in WhatsApp for a voice call that gives you the code.
Wait for Alternatives: If the SMS code doesn't come, wait for the timer to run out. WhatsApp might offer other methods.
Contact Support: If you're stuck, contacting WhatsApp's support with your issue and phone number might help.
Simple as that! Just a few steps, and you're on your way.
To use WhatsApp without a phone number, first download WhatsApp.
Then, get a virtual phone number from a provider like Google Voice or one of the other six providers mentioned above.
Enter this virtual number into WhatsApp during setup.
Verify the number when WhatsApp sends a code to your virtual number, and you're all set to use WhatsApp.
With these steps, you'll have WhatsApp up and running with a virtual number!
Absolutely, you can change your virtual number on WhatsApp. It's a straightforward process:
Open WhatsApp Settings: Go to the settings section in your WhatsApp.
Select 'Account': Find the 'Account' option.
Choose 'Change Number': There's a specific feature for changing numbers.
Follow the Steps: WhatsApp will guide you through the rest. Just ensure both your old and new numbers can receive texts or calls for verification.
That's it!