BroadcastoA phone number can be registered on the WhatsApp Business API only if it is not currently in use on the WhatsApp Business App or consumer WhatsApp. Verification is done via OTP (SMS or voice call). Once registered, the number cannot be used on the consumer app again unless deregistered.
Best practice: use a dedicated number for the API. If you must migrate an existing number, back up chats first, delete the WhatsApp account on the device, then register through Broadcasto. Existing chat history is not transferred to the API.
Indian landlines work if the carrier supports voice OTP. Virtual numbers (Twilio, Plivo) are explicitly disallowed by Meta.
Related terms
- WhatsApp Embedded Signup — Meta's in-product flow to connect a number to the WhatsApp Business API in minutes.
- WhatsApp Business App vs API — The free app is for one user; the API is for teams and automation.