How to Use Two WhatsApp Accounts on One iPhone (Officially)

Many people have two numbers: one personal, one for work or business. On iPhone, you can use two WhatsApp accounts at the same time, officially and for free.

Method 1: WhatsApp + WhatsApp Business (recommended)

1. Keep your normal WhatsApp with your first number.
2. Install WhatsApp Business (free, by WhatsApp/Meta) from the App Store.
3. Register it with your second number. You receive the verification code by SMS or call on that number.

Both apps work side by side, with separate chats, notifications and backups. WhatsApp Business also adds a business profile, catalog, quick replies and away messages, very useful for small businesses.

Where does the second number come from?

• Dual SIM: recent iPhones support a physical SIM plus an eSIM, or two eSIMs. Guide: set up an eSIM. China and Hong Kong models support two physical SIMs: regional models.
• A number on another phone: you only need access to it once to receive the code (and later for re-verification).
• A landline: WhatsApp Business can be verified with a call to a fixed number.

Method 2: Linked devices

WhatsApp lets you link a phone as a companion device of an account on another phone. On the iPhone, open WhatsApp, and on the welcome screen look for the option to link as a companion device; then scan the code from the main phone in Settings > Linked Devices. Availability depends on the WhatsApp version.

Avoid modified apps

"WhatsApp++", "GB WhatsApp" and similar modified apps promise dual accounts and extra features. They violate WhatsApp's terms, can lead to permanent account bans, and may steal your messages. Read why tweaked apps are risky.

Backups for both accounts

Each app has its own iCloud backup in Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Turn off "Include Videos" to save iCloud space: iCloud storage full.

Switching from Android?

Transfer WhatsApp from Android to iPhone.