How to obtain a phone number for WhatsApp Business API

It’s no secret that WhatsApp isn't just an app but a game-changer for businesses, connecting you with customers and sparking engagement like never before. But hold up – before we step onto this journey, let's talk about a tiny but vital detail: your phone number.

Luckily, there are effective strategies at your disposal to secure a new number for this purpose. In this guide, we'll navigate through two viable options: activating an eSIM or purchasing a virtual number.

• Activate an eSIM on your phone
• Generate a virtual phone number
• Integrate a WhatsApp for Business API to Kommo

The eSIM, or Embedded SIM, is a miniature embedded chip that's discreetly nestled within select smartphones. It can transcend the limitations of traditional SIM cards, granting users the freedom to activate mobile data plans from afar, without the need for a physical SIM card.

One of the standout advantages of eSIMs lies in their user-friendly activation process, which is often simpler and more streamlined compared to traditional SIM card installations. Furthermore, eSIMs occupy minimal physical space within your device, allowing for sleeker and more efficient design considerations.

However, it's important to recognize that eSIM compatibility is currently limited to a specific subset of devices, including:

• iPhone models starting from XS and onwards (such as XS, 11, 12, SE 2020, and more). Learn how to activate the eSIM on your iOS device here.
• Google Pixel devices commencing from Pixel 3 and later iterations (including 3, 3A, 4, 4A, 5, and beyond). If your device is listed here, learn on this link how to activate your eSIM.
• A selection of newer Samsung devices, encompassing the likes of S20, S21, Z Flip, Fold, and Note series. Samsung users can follow this guide to enable their eSIM.

Depending on your region, there are also some eSIM providers you can consider. In the United States, you can find AT&T and T-Mobile, while in Latin American countries, companies such as Claro, Movistar, and Entel are available, for example.

Virtual phone numbers function like regular phone numbers, without revealing your personal digits. WhatsApp now supports trusted virtual phone numbers, letting you keep your real number private and enabling businesses to engage a wider audience for marketing, minus the hassle of physical SIM cards.

Virtual numbers aren't just for WhatsApp; they're your ticket to social media and messaging platforms, from WhatsApp and Twitter to Facebook and beyond. Businesses gain an edge by maintaining a divide between personal and professional interactions.

Several providers offer WhatsApp virtual numbers, with options to suit your needs and budget. Picking a number is flexible – you can even choose from different types (local, mobile, toll-free) and countries.

Here are some options of trusted providers:

• RingCentral
• GoToConnect
• CloudTalk
• YourBusinessNumber
• KrispCall
• MightyCall
• Grasshopper

Getting a virtual number is very simple. To illustrate, let’s take a look at how you can obtain one with RingCentral.

1. Log into your RingCentral account.
2. Go to 'Phone System' and select 'Phone Numbers' from the dashboard sidebar.
3. Under 'Phone Number', go to the 'Assigned' tab and click 'Add Number', then choose the desired country.
4. Depending on your needs, select either 'Local Number', 'Toll-Free', or 'Vanity Number'.
5. Pick a number from the list and click 'Add Numbers', then proceed to the next step.
6. Assign the new number to an option such as Auto-receptionist, Extension, RingCentral Audio Conferencing, or RingCentral Meetings.
7. Click 'Next'.
8. Remember to check the confirmation box, then click 'Next' to finalize the order.
9. Save your receipt for your records.
10. Click 'Done' to complete the process.

Once obtained, your virtual number is ready to roll, enhancing privacy, marketing, and communication.

On Kommo, in order to connect with WhatsApp for Business API you must choose one of the WhatsApp providers listed in Kommo’s Integrations. Inside your account, head to Settings > Integrations and select the WhatsApp provider that best suits you (i.e. Gupshup, Twillio, Zenvia or another).

Follow the instructions to install the application and sign up into your WhatsApp account. Then connect your number (via SIM, an eSIM or a virtual number) and you’ll be ready to use your WhatsApp for Business account on Kommo and take your messaging game to the next level.

Need more help setting up or troubleshooting? Contact us by sending an email to support@kommo.com or write to us on Facebook.

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