First-day phone setup
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WhatsApp Messenger: set it up right the first time
Get it from Google Play if it isn't on your phone yet, then change three settings before you start using it.
What it's for
WhatsApp brings private messaging, group chats, and voice and video calls together across mobile and desktop. On a new phone, it gives you a way to reach contacts using your phone number, share photos and documents, and keep everyday conversations together.
Get the app
Official listing by WhatsApp LLC
Install the official WhatsApp Messenger app from Google Play, checking that the developer name is WhatsApp LLC before proceeding.
After it installs: three settings
- 01Review your privacy preferences
Review privacy preferences before sharing personal updates, especially if you use groups and Status with different circles of friends, family, or other contacts.
Look in the app's Settings for Privacy - 02Choose your Status audience
Status posts disappear after 24 hours, but choosing all contacts or selected people still matters when an update is meant for a smaller audience.
Look in the app's Settings for Status privacy - 03Find help when needed
Keep the contact route in mind if you need help with WhatsApp or want to send feedback about a problem you encounter while using it.
WhatsApp > Settings > Help > Contact Us
Path as given in the developer's help pages; menu names can differ slightly between versions and phones.
Common problem
Having trouble verifying your number? First check that you entered the intended phone number and that your phone has a working connection. WhatsApp uses SMS verification in some regions. If the problem continues, use WhatsApp > Settings > Help > Contact Us when you can access that menu.
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