Can I Use Google Voice for WhatsApp? In-depth Guide Here!

WhatsApp is known for its robust features that allow users to send messages, share media, and make voice and video calls—all secured with end-to-end encryption. Yet, in an age where privacy and convenience are paramount, users often explore alternatives to traditional phone numbers, such as Google Voice, especially when setting up their WhatsApp accounts. So, can I use Google Voice number for WhatsApp? Read it on.

Part 1. Understanding Google Voice and WhatsApp Integration

Google Voice is a service provided by Google that gives users a new phone number linked to their Google account, which can be used for calls, text messages, and voicemail through an internet connection rather than traditional phone lines. This service is particularly useful for those who want to manage calls and messages without relying on a physical SIM card.

WhatsApp, however, traditionally requires a phone number linked to a SIM-enabled device for its verification process. This ensures that each account has a unique and verifiable identity for security purposes.

Part 2. The Possibility and Process of Using Google Voice for WhatsApp

Despite WhatsApp's preference for traditional phone numbers, it is possible to use a Google Voice number for WhatsApp registration, though it involves navigating some complexities. Here's how you can use Google Voice for WhatsApp:

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1. Acquire a Google Voice Number: First, you need to obtain a Google Voice number, which can be done through your Google account. Follow the instructions to link this number to your account. Just sign up a new account in Google Voice.

Step 2. Verification with Actual Number: Before using your Google Voice number effectively, verify it with an actual phone number. Google Voice requires this step to ensure you have access to a real device.

Step 3. Install WhatsApp: Download and install WhatsApp from your device's app store. If you have a WhatsApp with phone number already, uninstall it and install WhatsApp again.
Step 4. Start WhatsApp Verification: Enter the Google Voice number during WhatsApp's verification phase. Choose to receive the verification code via SMS. If SMS doesn't work, try opting for the voice call option where WhatsApp will call your Google Voice number with the code.
Step 5. Input Verification Code: Once you receive the code, input it into WhatsApp to finalize the setup.

Part 3. Challenges That May Arise

1. WhatsApp Guidelines: WhatsApp has strict guidelines regarding the types of phone numbers that can be used to register an account, and Google Voice numbers often do not fully comply with these criteria.

2. Verification Issues: Even if you receive the verification code, there is no guarantee of the seamless functionality of WhatsApp with a Google Voice number, as connectivity might not be stable.

3. Commit to Complex Steps: The success of this process often requires adherence to several steps and might involve technical issues due to the virtual nature of Google Voice numbers.

Bonus Tip. How to Backup and Restore WhatsApp After Changing to Google Voice

If you want to change your number to Google Voice number, you may lose all your chat messaging including chats, contacts, photos, videos, etc. Therefore, backing up your WhatsApp before using Google Voice number is a wise choice to keep your WhatsApp data safe. Here, I will recommend TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer to you. TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer is a multifunctional WhatsApp data managing tool is effective features including transfer WhatsApp messages between iOS devices, back up WhatsApp to computer, restore WhatsApp backup, and export WhatsApp backup to computer.

You can follow the below steps to backup and restore your WhatsApp by using TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer.

Step 1 Prepare to backup WhatsApp data

To begin with, download and install TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer on your computer. When the program is installed on your computer successfully, connect your iPhone to the computer.

Step 2 Start backing up WhatsApp data

Then, select the Backup feature on the TunesKit main interface. Just click on the Start Backup button, and TunesKit WhatsApp Transfer will start to backup your WhatsApp messages to the computer.

Step 3 Restore WhatsApp backups

When you need to retrieve your WhatsApp backup data to your iOS device, just connect your iPhone to the computer and use the Restore feature to restore the backup file to your iOS device.

Conclusion

While using a Google Voice number for WhatsApp is technically possible, it involves navigating through several hurdles. WhatsApp's security features inherently favor traditional SIM-linked phone numbers, and virtual numbers like Google Voice may not always provide the stability or compliance required. Understanding the requirements and being prepared for possible connectivity hiccups can lead to a smoother experience if you decide to pursue this integration.