How to get a second number for WhatsApp - briefly?
To obtain a second number for WhatsApp, you can use a virtual phone number service or a dual SIM device. Virtual phone number services like Google Voice or Sonetel allow you to create an additional number that can be used with WhatsApp. Alternatively, if your device supports it, using a dual SIM feature enables you to have two active numbers on the same phone, each capable of running its own instance of WhatsApp.
How to get a second number for WhatsApp - in detail?
To obtain a second number for WhatsApp, you can follow several methods depending on your device and preferences. Here are the detailed steps for each approach:
Using Dual SIM Phones
If you have a dual SIM phone, you can easily set up two numbers for WhatsApp without any additional apps or services.
- Insert Second SIM Card: Insert the second SIM card into your device's SIM tray.
- Activate Dual SIM Feature: Go to your phone settings and activate the dual SIM feature if it’s not already enabled.
- Set Up WhatsApp: Open WhatsApp and follow the setup process. When prompted for a phone number, enter the second number.
- Verify Second Number: You will receive an SMS or call to verify the second number. Follow the instructions to complete the verification process.
- Switch Between Accounts: Once set up, you can switch between your primary and secondary WhatsApp accounts through the app settings or by tapping on the account name at the top of the chat screen.
Using Parallel Apps (for Android)
If your device supports parallel apps, you can use this feature to run two instances of WhatsApp with different numbers.
- Enable Parallel Apps: Go to your phone settings and search for "Dual Messenger" or "Parallel Apps". Enable the feature for WhatsApp.
- Set Up Second Instance: Open the second instance of WhatsApp from your app drawer. Follow the setup process and enter your second number when prompted.
- Verify Second Number: Complete the verification process by entering the code sent to your second number via SMS or call.
- Use Both Accounts: Now you can use both WhatsApp accounts independently on your device.
Using Third-Party Apps
For users who cannot use dual SIM phones or parallel apps, third-party services like TextNow, Google Voice, or Hushed offer virtual numbers that can be used with WhatsApp.
- Download and Install: Download a third-party app from the Play Store or App Store. Popular choices include TextNow, Google Voice, or Hushed.
- Sign Up for Service: Create an account and follow the sign-up process within the app. You will be assigned a new phone number.
- Verify Number in WhatsApp: Open WhatsApp and enter the virtual number when prompted during setup.
- Complete Verification: Use the app to receive the verification code sent to your virtual number. Enter this code into WhatsApp to complete the process.
- Manage Accounts: You can now use WhatsApp with both your primary and virtual numbers, managing each account separately within the app.
Important Considerations
- Data Privacy: Be cautious when using third-party apps for virtual numbers as they may collect user data.
- Compatibility: Ensure that your device and WhatsApp version support dual SIM or parallel apps before proceeding.
- Service Fees: Some third-party services might charge a fee for providing virtual numbers.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully set up a second number for WhatsApp on your device, allowing you to manage multiple accounts seamlessly.