You cannot use WhatsApp without a phone number for initial signup, but the official Linked Devices feature (Companion Mode) lets you use WhatsApp on secondary devices without a phone number on those devices. This is the only legitimate way to use WhatsApp without a phone number after your account is created.
Can you really use WhatsApp without a phone number?
A phone number is always required to register a WhatsApp account. However, once your primary phone with an active number is set up, you can link up to four additional devices that operate independently. These linked devices do not need their own phone number or SIM card, making this the only verified method for secondary device access.
The official way: WhatsApp Linked Devices (Companion Mode)
WhatsApp's Linked Devices feature, also known as Companion Mode, allows you to use your account on additional devices without requiring a phone number on those secondary devices. Your primary phone must have an active phone number and be used once to register the account. After linking, the secondary devices function independently, your primary phone does not need to be online or connected to the internet for them to work.
What devices can you link?
You can link a wide range of devices to your primary WhatsApp account, including Windows and Mac computers, web browsers (WhatsApp Web), Android tablets, iPads, companion phones (both Android and iPhone), WearOS smartwatches, and Meta AI glasses or VR devices. Each linked device operates as a separate endpoint for your account.
How to link a new device using a QR code
- Open WhatsApp on your primary phone.
- Navigate to Settings (or More Options / the three vertical dots on Android).
- Select Linked Devices, then tap Link a Device.
- On the secondary device, open WhatsApp or WhatsApp Web to display a QR code.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the secondary device's screen using your primary phone.
Once scanned, the secondary device is linked and can be used independently. When linking a device via WhatsApp Web without a phone number, you can manually input the virtual phone number associated with your account in the web application's settings to establish a connection. Third-party services offer virtual phone numbers specifically designed for WhatsApp Web verification and linking.
How to link a device using an 8-character code
For WhatsApp Web or WhatsApp for Windows/Mac, you can alternatively choose to link with a phone number. On the secondary device, select the option to "Link with phone number" to display an 8-character code. On your primary phone, go to Settings > Linked Devices > Link a Device, then enter the 8-character code displayed on the secondary screen. This method works without scanning a QR code.
How to set up WhatsApp on a companion phone
- Download the WhatsApp app on the secondary smartphone.
- Open the app and tap Agree and Continue.
- Tap More Options (three vertical dots on Android) or the menu icon.
- Select Link to existing account or Link as companion device.
- A QR code will appear on the secondary phone's screen.
The companion phone is now linked and can send and receive messages without its own phone number.
Important limitations of linked devices
All linked devices will automatically log out if your primary phone remains inactive for over 14 days. Some features are not supported on linked companion phones, including sharing live location, updating your status, creating or viewing broadcast lists, and creating or deleting groups. When linking a new device, only recent messages are synced; older messages may not appear or carry over to the linked device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use WhatsApp on a tablet without a SIM card?
Yes, you can use WhatsApp on an Android tablet or iPad by linking it as a companion device via QR code. The tablet does not need its own SIM card or phone number, as it uses your primary phone's account.
Can I use a virtual number to create a WhatsApp account?
Virtual numbers are not supported for WhatsApp account registration. The app requires a real, active mobile number that can receive SMS or a phone call for verification. Using a virtual number may result in failed verification or account suspension.
Can I use a landline number for verification?
You can use a landline number for verification by choosing the 'verify via a phone call' option during setup, which calls the landline with an automated voice message containing the code.
Will my linked devices work if my primary phone is off?
Yes, linked devices function independently after the initial linking.
What happens if I lose my primary phone?
If your primary phone is lost or becomes inactive for more than 14 days, all linked devices will automatically log out. You would need to register a new account with a phone number to regain access.
Can I link more than four devices to one account?
No, WhatsApp limits you to linking a maximum of four additional devices to your primary account. If you need to link a new device, you must first unlink one of the existing linked devices.
For the wider topic, see creating accounts without a phone number.
