David Bridges
There are numerous compelling reasons to consider staying away from the Meta ecosystem, which encompasses platforms like Facebook and Instagram. However, it is essential to note that in certain regions and communities, WhatsApp remains the primary platform for text-based communication. This application serves as an excellent alternative to traditional SMS, offering robust end-to-end encryption. It has also been a favored method for sharing uncompressed photos and videos between iPhone and Android users, especially prior to Apple’s adoption of RCS. Despite the fact that Facebook—which has since rebranded to Meta—acquired WhatsApp in 2014, you can use WhatsApp independently without needing a Facebook or Instagram account; all you need is a functioning phone number.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a WhatsApp Account Independently from Facebook or Instagram
The first step in setting up your WhatsApp account is to download the WhatsApp application on your smartphone. After launching the app, you will initiate the registration process by providing a valid phone number. Once you enter your phone number, you will receive a unique six-digit verification code via SMS, which you will use to complete the registration process. Following this, you can browse through your contacts stored on your smartphone to build your network on WhatsApp. Importantly, you won’t need to connect any Facebook or Instagram accounts at any stage of this setup.
If you prefer, there is also the option to receive the verification code through a voice call. Regardless of the method chosen, once the registration process is successfully completed, you will have a fully functional WhatsApp account that operates independently from any Facebook or Instagram accounts.
Should you later decide that you want to integrate more of your Meta apps, you can easily make this adjustment in the app’s Settings panel. Within Settings, look for the Accounts Center option, which features the Meta badge. By selecting this option, you will find features to “Add Facebook account” and “Add Instagram account.” Linking these accounts enables Meta to provide a more personalized experience across its platforms, thanks to the interconnected personal data.
If you change your mind about linking your accounts and wish to dissociate your WhatsApp account from the Meta Accounts Center, you can do so by returning to the Settings panel. Keep in mind that while you can unlink your account, any previously shared data will remain combined. However, after you remove your account, Meta will stop merging any new personal data.
Daniel Mercer
Brandon Fletcher
