WhatsApp is currently the largest instant messaging app globally, with over 3 billion monthly active users. Whether you're new to this tool or feel you haven't unlocked its full potential, this guide will take you from scratch, step-by-step, through WhatsApp's core features and advanced tips.
For users who need to manage multiple WhatsApp accounts (such as cross-border e-commerce sellers, social media managers, etc.), issues like account association or device limitations may arise. In such cases, anti-detect browsers like MasLogin can help you securely run multiple independent WhatsApp accounts on the same device, avoiding platform recognition as bulk operations.
WhatsApp is more than just a chat tool; its end-to-end encryption makes it one of the most secure communication methods globally. This means even WhatsApp itself cannot read the content of your messages.
Unlike traditional SMS, all WhatsApp communications go through Wi-Fi or mobile data networks, rather than relying on carrier cell towers. This not only saves on international SMS fees but also maintains a stable connection in areas with better network coverage.
Whether you're using an iPhone or an Android device, the installation process is very simple:
iPhone Users:
Android Users:
After installation, open the app and follow the prompts for initial setup. WhatsApp will guide you through account verification and basic configuration.
When you use it for the first time, you'll need to provide a valid phone number. WhatsApp will send a verification code to this number to confirm your identity. This phone number will become your WhatsApp account identifier, used for sending and receiving messages and calls.
During setup, the system will request the following permissions:
It's recommended to enable all these permissions for a complete user experience.
After setup, you can edit your profile:
This information will be visible to your contacts, helping them identify you.
Tap "Chats" on the bottom navigation bar, then tap the green plus icon in the top right corner:
If the entered number is not yet registered with WhatsApp, you'll be prompted to send an invitation link to the person.
Creating Group Chats: Tap "New Group," select multiple contacts, and set a group name. You can also:
After sending a message, you'll see different icons:
Long-press any sent message and select "Delete":
Note: There's a time limit for this feature; after a certain period, you can only delete it for yourself.
In any chat interface, tap the phone or camera icon in the top right corner to initiate:
Call quality depends on your internet connection speed. It's recommended to use WhatsApp on Wi-Fi for the best experience.
Tap the camera icon next to the input field:
Press and hold the microphone icon to record voice messages; release it to send automatically.
Tap the "Status" tab at the bottom, then tap the pencil icon:
This is similar to the "Moments" or "Stories" feature on Instagram or WeChat, allowing you to share snippets of your daily life.
WhatsApp offers a feature similar to Facebook Public Pages. You can subscribe to:
These channels regularly push content updates, which you can view on the "Status" page.
WhatsApp provides extensive privacy controls that are recommended to adjust based on your needs:
Go to "Settings > Privacy > Last Seen & Online":
Note: If you choose to hide your last seen, you also won't be able to see others' last seen times.
Go to "Settings > Privacy," scroll down to "Read Receipts," and turn it off. This means:
This feature is very useful for users concerned about privacy.
For sensitive conversations, you can:
Go to "Settings > Chats > Chat Backup":
Regular backups can prevent data loss due to device loss or app uninstallation.
Go to "Settings > Storage and Data > Manage Storage":
It's recommended to disable automatic downloads over mobile data and only allow automatic file reception over Wi-Fi to save data.
WhatsApp supports using the same account on multiple devices simultaneously:
This is very convenient for users who switch between their office computer and phone.
WhatsApp's "Communities" are similar to Discord or Slack:
If you are a business owner or freelancer, consider upgrading to WhatsApp Business:
For users who need to manage multiple WhatsApp accounts simultaneously (like cross-border sellers, social media marketers), traditional methods often present the following issues:
At this point, anti-detect browsers like MasLogin can offer effective solutions. They create independent browser environments for each account, simulating different device fingerprints, thus securely running multiple WhatsApp Web sessions on the same computer and avoiding account association risks.
Yes, WhatsApp does not charge any fees, including for international calls and messages. The only cost is for internet data usage. It's recommended to use WhatsApp on Wi-Fi to save on mobile data.
Yes. You can use WhatsApp on your computer via WhatsApp Web or the desktop app, as long as your phone remains logged in. Some tablets also support direct WhatsApp installation.
WhatsApp has the largest user base and is suitable for daily social interactions. Telegram supports super large groups and channels, ideal for community management. Signal offers the strongest privacy protection, suitable for users with extremely high security requirements. All three use end-to-end encryption, and you can choose based on your needs.
Avoid the following behaviors: frequent mass advertising, using unofficial modified versions of WhatsApp, adding a large number of strangers in a short period, and sending prohibited content. For users involved in marketing and promotion, it's recommended to use the official WhatsApp Business and adhere to platform rules.
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