How to Create a Virtual Phone Number for WhatsApp
The complete guide to setting up a second number for texts and calls.
WhatsApp virtual number and how to get one is what an increasing number of individuals and companies are looking for these days. The messaging app is among the most popular ones in the world, boasting a global audience of almost 3 billion users in 180 countries. WhatsApp is a solid platform for private communication and customer-brand interactions alike. Both use cases can reap significant benefits from using a virtual WhatsApp number instead of a real one. From the article, you’ll learn what a virtual number for WhatsApp is, its benefits, how to create one, and what platforms can help with getting a free number for WhatsApp.
Table of content
What is a WhatsApp virtual number
WhatsApp virtual phone number is a number that may be used to sign up for and activate a WhatsApp account without a physical SIM card. It enables a person to use WhatsApp on numerous devices at once and share phone number with multiple users.Virtual phone numbers for WhatsApp can operate on any device capable of accessing the internet, installing third-party apps, and receiving voice calls. For example, they can be used to make calls from laptops, smartphones and via VoIP telephony.
Nowadays, many people are using virtual phone numbers to register for social media and online messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Facebook, Telegram, and more. It is also a perfect solution for any business that has an in-office, remote, or work-from-home setup. Numerous apps and services let you select a local or international number from various nations and regions, as well as capabilities such as call forwarding, routing, and voicemail (more on them below).
Benefits of using a virtual phone number for WhatsApp
Virtual phone numbers for WhatsApp have been a game-changing innovation in customer communication, as companies adapt to the changing technological environment. Using a free virtual phone number can benefit your business in many ways, such as expanding market reach and enhancing customer engagement.
Cross-device synchronization
One virtual phone number for WhatsApp can be used on multiple devices in several locations, which facilitates seamless communication using an array of internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more. Such connectivity transcends geographical boundaries, bridging gaps from within the same building to continents apart.
In an era characterized by the surge in remote work, businesses search for ways to set up reliable and robust communication channels. The use of virtual phone numbers eliminates the risk of missing calls if, for example, an agent works out of the office and receives a call from a customer.
Optimized customer engagement
WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app, so using it for customer communication creates a sense of familiarity among customers. WhatsApp also stands out for its high open rate and speed of engagement — 57% of WhatsApp messages are read within a minute. Therefore, it improves communication efficiency, enabling smooth interactions with both existing clientele and potential customers. A more personalized customer experience can be effectively achieved with the adoption of a free virtual phone number for WhatsApp.
Setting up a virtual WhatsApp number to send text messages, videos, and images for marketing and promotional purposes allows a company to keep in touch with its audience. It also aligns with today’s customers’ preference for instant text messaging rather than using traditional customer support phone lines.
Improved internal communication
Virtual numbers for WhatsApp are also a powerful tool for internal communication. As companies embrace remote and hybrid working culture, virtual phone numbers and VoIP telephony provide the freedom to stay connected anytime and anywhere, without being tethered to a specific location or device.
Protection of privacy
Not everyone feels comfortable sharing personal phone numbers for professional contacts. The great thing about virtual WhatsApp numbers is their capacity to link to a private telephone number without compromising your privacy. They prove particularly advantageous for sole proprietors who run their businesses while safeguarding the sanctity of their home numbers. A side benefit here: you can easily choose a nice-looking virtual phone number combination for customer communication, instead of using a real one, which can often be hard to memorize.
Useful integrations
Virtual phone number platforms provide their users with a wide array of free and paid integration options that deliver a wealth of valuable benefits to businesses. These include features such as virtual receptionists, calendar integrations, voicemail (with transcription services), online faxing, and team messaging capabilities. Furthermore, integrations with such popular platforms as Microsoft 365, Canvas, Salesforce, and Zendesk allow to seamlessly integrate phone communication into a company’s business environment. Some subscription plans even include advanced teleconferencing features. These WhatsApp integrations empower businesses to communicate more efficiently.
Increased marketing returns on investment
WhatsApp virtual phone number is a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone lines. For smaller enterprises requiring just a handful of phone lines each month, the cost can be surprisingly modest, often staying well below a hundred dollars. However, as businesses expand, with their workforce numbering in the hundreds and thousands, communication expenses tend to skyrocket. When you factor in multiple office locations, possibly spanning several countries, telephone monthly costs can reach thousands of dollars monthly.
Irrespective of your business's size, adopting virtual phone numbers can substantially decrease your telephone expenditures. These online numbers eliminate the need for expensive multi-line corded hardware. Depending on your service plan, you might even secure at least one virtual phone number for WhatsApp for free. Furthermore, receiving domestic calls is often cost-free, and international call rates remain budget-friendly.
How can one get a virtual phone number for WhatsApp
The process of creating WhatsApp virtual number starts with deciding on a provider. There are many companies to choose from, each differing in available options and pricing policy.
- Register on a virtual phone provider platform of your choice.
- Select a country code and phone number type (local, mobile, toll-free, national, etc.).
- Select a subscription period or pay-as-you-go plan.
- Purchase the virtual number using a suitable online payment method, such as a credit card or PayPal.
- Use the new number to register a WhatsApp account and start receiving and sending messages and calls with it.
Top platforms for WhatsApp virtual number
Let’s take a closer look at some of the noteworthy platforms that can be used to get a virtual number for WhatsApp.
Hushed
Hushed is a versatile app that offers a range of virtual numbers. The platform allows users to register virtual numbers for WhatsApp and other platforms from various countries without requiring a physical SIM card.
Hushed offers three plans, with the most affordable one starting from $4.99 (depending on the region and subscription duration), and supports Android and iOS platforms. The app has several key features, such as managing multiple numbers within a single app, accessing your number using Wi-Fi or data connection, ensuring privacy and security in conversations, customizing and recording voicemail, affordable international call rates, call forwarding and routing, as well as integrations with Dropbox and Slack. The app allows to select a number from over 40 countries. A 3-day trial is available to new users.
Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a virtual phone service designed to provide small and medium-sized businesses with an efficient communication system. It offers a range of number options, including toll-free, local vanity, and dedicated business numbers, enabling seamless customer communication via WhatsApp across multiple devices. While Grasshopper is only available in the US and Canadian markets and is priced higher than some of its competitors (starting at $14), it offers a robust suite of communication tools, including 24/7 support and advanced call controls, focused on optimizing customer communications.
Numero
Numero app allows you to generate a phone number through a mobile application. This app provides instant data connections to various locations using eSIM data plans with paid data bundles. It’s compatible with most instant messaging and social media platforms. Numero has several key features, such as instant data connections, roaming services without traditional fees, multiple customer support channels, local and international calling options, and customizable bundles at competitive prices. Numero’s virtual phone numbers start at €3.49/month.
Talkatone
Talkatone is a free app that allows you to get a virtual number for WhatsApp and other messaging apps.
Talkatone offers free US/Canada numbers that are ad-supported. However they may be subject to limitations and availability. The key features include a personalized free US/Canada phone number for texting and calling, changing phone number anytime and unlimited group and individual messaging. However, the app contains ads in the free version and users have complained about the limited availability of customer support.
Blacktel
Blacktel is a service that lets you buy and use virtual phone numbers for WhatsApp without physical SIM cards or cell phones. You can choose from phone numbers in the US, UK and other countries. There are Calls + SMS packages, as well as SMS only or WhatsApp SIM, which provides a number to register accounts for the platforms that require SMS verification. The Trash SIM option lets you use a disposable number for a limited time, such as when you travel or sign up for something. This saves you from getting a new phone line or changing SIM cards and also keeps your privacy by hiding your real number. The pricing depends on the chosen country, starting from €15 for a number.
Phone.com
Aptly named Phone.com, the platform is a convenient solution for quickly obtaining WhatsApp virtual phone number from over 25 countries. It provides essential communication tools such as a dedicated business phone number, auto-attendant, SMS/text messaging, hold music, and advanced calling features like call screening, transfers, and CRM integration.
Phone.com provides the ability to make web, audio, and video conference calls from anywhere, ensuring connectivity. Moreover, it boasts secure operations with HIPAA compliance, including encrypted voice data and secure messaging options, making it a reliable choice for privacy-sensitive industries. Additionally, Phone.com allows for call queuing and routing to specific phone numbers, enhancing call management. The pricing plans start from $12.99 per month, while Phone.com doesn't offer a free trial, it does provide a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving users the confidence to explore its services without commitment.
Google Voice
Google Voice provides users with a free US phone number for calls, texts and voicemail that works across devices. It offers features such as free calling to the US and Canada, voicemail transcription, call screening, custom greetings and call forwarding.
While Google Voice numbers can potentially be used for WhatsApp verification in some cases, success varies as WhatsApp occasionally restricts these virtual numbers. To try this, you need to set up a Google Voice account and obtain a number, then use that number during the WhatsApp verification process to receive the verification code via text or call.
| Provider | Regions | Pricing (monthly) | Key Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hushed | Numbers available from 40+ countries | From $4.99 | • Multi-number management • Wi-Fi and data connectivity • Custom voicemail & privacy controls • Call forwarding, routing, and integrations | Individuals looking for versatility and international coverage. |
| Grasshopper | US & Canada numbers | From $14 | • Business-focused phone system • Toll-free, local vanity, and dedicated numbers • Advanced call controls and 24/7 support | SMBs seeking a robust, professional communication system. |
| Numero | Global coverage via instant eSIM connections | From €3.49 | • Roaming without traditional fees • Customizable data bundles • Local and international calling | Individuals and businesses needing instant connectivity and flexible data plans. |
| Talkatone | US & Canada | Free (ad-supported) | • Unlimited messaging and calling • Ability to change numbers anytime | Cost-conscious users or those testing virtual numbers. |
| Blacktel | US, UK, and select other countries | From €15 | • Calls + SMS, SMS-only, and WhatsApp SIM types • Disposable “Trash SIM” for temporary use • Privacy-focused number masking | Users requiring disposable numbers or privacy on a short-term basis. |
| Phone.com | Over 25 countries | From $12.99 | • Auto-attendant, call screening, and CRM integration • HIPAA-compliant secure communications • Web, audio, and video conferencing | Businesses requiring comprehensive and secure communications. |
| Google Voice | US | Free | • Free phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail • Voicemail transcription, call screening, and custom greetings • Integration with Google ecosystem | Primarily individuals seeking free virtual numbers. |
Frequent questions about WhatsApp virtual numbers
In the section, we provide guidance for often asked questions regarding virtual numbers for WhatsApp.
How to get a free USA number for WhatsApp?
Getting a truly free US number for WhatsApp is challenging because reliable options are scarce. The platform frequently detects and blocks these virtual numbers, so verification might fail, or the account could be banned later. While Google Voice provides a more stable US number, it requires you to already have access to a different, non-virtual US phone number for the initial setup process, making it inaccessible for those seeking a completely free solution from scratch.
Can one use a virtual SIM for WhatsApp?
As long as a virtual number can receive SMS or voice calls for verification, it can be used to set up a WhatsApp account. This is particularly useful for travelers, remote workers, or businesses that manage multiple WhatsApp accounts using virtual numbers. However, not all virtual numbers are supported. WhatsApp may block some temporary numbers, especially from free services. To ensure long-term access, it is best to use a reliable and reputable virtual number provider.
Can one get a burner number for WhatsApp?
It is possible to get a burner number for WhatsApp to maintain anonymity or keep your primary number private. However, keep in mind that WhatsApp can detect and block burner numbers used excessively or for spamming purposes, and some burner apps and virtual phone number services may not work with WhatsApp due to the app's security measures.
Can you use WhatsApp Business without a phone number?
The short answer is "no", as a valid phone number is required to create and verify your account. WhatsApp uses the phone number as a unique identifier and sends a verification code via SMS or voice call to confirm ownership. The number doesn't have to be on the same device you install the app on, and if you have a dual SIM phone, you can run both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business on different numbers. For businesses that don't want to use a personal number, getting a dedicated business line or compatible virtual number is the best option.
Conclusion
Using a virtual phone number for WhatsApp is a great way to keep your personal phone number private while still being able to communicate with others on the messenger. This is also a great option for businesses since it allows multiple support agents using different devices to process customer inquiries sent to a single number. When choosing a virtual number provider, it’s important to consider what types of phone numbers are available, what features it has, and available pricing plans.
If you’re looking for a virtual phone number, you`ll likely also need a WhatsApp integration to streamline your messaging across multiple messaging apps. Consider Umnico omnichannel messaging platform, which allows users to send text messages on WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram and more than 25 other messaging apps and social media from a single desktop or mobile interface. A free trial period is available to all new users.
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