To use WhatsApp with Talkative, you must have a phone number registered against your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA). There are two ways to add a number, depending on whether you would like Talkative to provision one for you, or whether you plan to use your own existing number.
Which option should I choose?
For initial setup, we generally recommend using a Talkative-provisioned number. This is typically the fastest and simplest way to get started, allowing you to configure, test and launch your WhatsApp integration without delays related to number migration or deregistration.
If you intend to use a number from an external supplier long term, this can always be added at a later stage once your WhatsApp configuration is live and validated.
Quick comparison
Feature | Talkative-Provided Number (Recommended for most new setups) | Bring Your Own Number |
Speed of setup | Fastest option | May require additional coordination |
Migration required | No | Yes (if currently in use) |
Verification complexity | Low | Medium–High |
Dependency on third parties | None | May require involvement from existing provider |
Best for | New setups, testing, rapid launch | Established numbers with existing customer awareness |
Risk of setup delays | Low | Higher if number is still linked elsewhere |
Can additional numbers be added later? | Yes | Yes |
Option 1: Talkative-Provisioned Number (via Twilio)
Talkative can provision and configure a new number on your behalf through our Twilio integration and register it directly against your WhatsApp Business Account.
This approach:
- Avoids the need to release an existing number
- Reduces verification friction
- Simplifies initial setup and testing
- Minimises dependency on third-party providers
Option 2: Bring Your Own Number
If you would like to use an existing phone number, it must be eligible for WhatsApp Business registration and capable of receiving verification (SMS or voice). The number must not currently be registered to an active WhatsApp consumer or business app unless it has been fully deregistered.
This option may require coordination with your current provider and additional verification steps.
Select the option that best fits your requirements and follow the relevant guide to complete the setup process.