How do I connect WhatsApp officially through Meta?

The official connection through Meta is the recommended way: your number runs on the official WhatsApp Business Platform, without the ban risk of an unofficial link.

Before you start

• Open the dashboard on a computer (Meta's window does not work on a phone). On a phone, see Finish connecting on a computer.
• Sign in as the workspace owner. Team members cannot open the connect page.
• Have a Facebook account ready. If you have no Meta business account, one is created during the steps.
• A number that can receive a verification code by SMS or call.

Steps

1. In the sidebar open Channels → Channels (/panel/v2/channels).
2. On the WhatsApp card click Connect now, then choose the Official connection via Meta tab.
3. Answer "Is this number already used in the WhatsApp Business app on your phone?":
   • Yes: click Keep my WhatsApp Business app and follow the coexistence steps.
   • No, it is a new number: click Connect a new number with Meta.
4. The Continue with Meta page opens: sign in to Facebook, pick your business and number, and enter the verification code.
5. You return to the dashboard automatically and the connection finishes on its own.

Note: do not pick Meta's test number that starts with +1 555. If that happens you will see "This is Meta's test number, not your business number" and a Reconnect with my real number button.

What happens next?

The WhatsApp card shows Connected (Official) and messages start arriving right away. Next step: set up the AI assistant. If you see an error, see Common connection errors and fixes.