WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps around the world, and its use is not likely to fade away any time soon.
However, the app and all its features are virtually unusable without an active SIM card. Or is it?
In this article, we are going to answer the question: can you use WhatsApp without a SIM? And if so, how do you do it?
Can You Use WhatsApp Without a SIM?
In short, yes, you can.
We are not sure of any legal ramifications of doing so, but hopefully, the consequences of being found out are not too severe. Besides, the methods we will be discussing shortly are used by many all around the world, so it is at least safe to say that the likelihood of being caught in the act is pretty low.
Some Prerequisites
There are a few things you need to consider before trying the method we will be going over.
Firstly, you are going to need the WhatsApp application. This is a pretty obvious stipulation, but after downloading the app, make sure that you do not open it yet.
Secondly, make sure that your WhatsApp account has not yet been verified. This is why we recommend not opening the app immediately after installing it, as you will be prompted to verify your account.
Thirdly, if your account is verified, you can undo this by uninstalling and then reinstalling the app on your device. If you do, do not open it yet. We will get to that shortly.
Without any further ado then, let us go over a tried and tested method of using WhatsApp without a SIM.
Method One: TextNow
TextNow is also a messaging app similar to WhatsApp, but with a twist. TextNow gives you a temporary number for you to use, which masks your phone’s actual number (or serves in place of it if your phone does not have a number, to begin with). With this nifty feature, we can circumvent WhatsApp’s verification system.
Step One
You are going to need to download TextNow, to begin with. Luckily, the app is available on all platforms through Google Play, iTunes, and the Windows Phone Store. If you are using WhatsApp on PC, you will need an Android emulator in order to run TextNow.
Step Two
Once TextNow is successfully installed, complete the app’s set-up process. Towards the end, it will provide you with your temporary phone number, which you will need to note down. If you miss it during the set-up process, you can find it by pressing.
Step Three
Next, you are going to need to get started with WhatsApp’s own verification process. Once you agree to the Terms and Conditions of using the app, you will be prompted to input your number. This is where you will use your TextNow number.
Step Four
Once you have input your TextNow number, WhatsApp will attempt to send you an SMS with your verification code. It will take five minutes to fail, which is what you want. Once the SMS fails, select “Call Me” to receive an automated call from the service.
Step Five
Open the TextNow app, and you should find that you are receiving a call from WhatsApp. Answer it, and you will hear your verification code being repeated. Note it down, then enter it on WhatsApp.
Step Six
Finally, once all that has been done, you can complete the verification process. You will now have successfully created a WhatsApp account without a phone number. Give yourself a pat on the back, if you want!
Summary
If the TextNow method does not work, you can also use the methods found on this site, or this one.
Now you know how to use WhatsApp without a SIM card. This can be used in a variety of situations, of which there are too many to go into here.
If you ever find yourself without a SIM and still need an instant messaging app, you know what to do. Hopefully, you will not ever need to resort to this, but the option is always there. Good luck.
