WhatsApp is one platform that relies on human connections via phone numbers. Although a username feature will soon change that, you still need people's contact details to chat with them and do more in the meantime. You can't directly message them from the app without adding them to your contacts.
The click-to-chat feature provides a workaround solution, but it's stressful, especially if you frequently connect with new people. If you want seamless conversations with loved ones, friends, and others, here's how to add them to your phone's directory and talk with them on WhatsApp.
How to add someone on WhatsApp and chat with them
To chat with someone on WhatsApp, you'll save their digits first before texting them. Doing it gives both parties access to each other's profiles, statuses, and other information. Also, saved contacts are organized and easier to identify since you've attached a name to the phone number. The person you're adding needs to have a WhatsApp account; if they don't, you'll see an option to invite them.
But if you’re sensitive about privacy, you can message them with the click-to-chat feature without saving them as a contact. Of course, this method cuts you off from certain profile information and statuses. Yet it works for situations when you’re texting strangers.
After texting a person via click-to-chat for the first time, the history remains in the Chat menu for you to revisit. But if you delete the conversation, you'll have to go through the process of messaging them from scratch. If you already have an ongoing conversation with someone who's not on your contacts list, you can add them from the app.
Here's how to use all three methods of adding people on WhatsApp:
Adding people directly on WhatsApp
- Open WhatsApp. Then tap the chat button at the bottom left corner. On Android, it looks like a speech bubble and may have + inside it. On iOS, it's a notepad with a pen icon in the top right corner.
- Next, tap New Contact.
- You should see text fields for typing a name and entering a phone number. Fill in the necessary information. Then tap Save at the bottom of the screen.
- WhatsApp will notify you at the bottom of the screen that it has added the contact. Quickly tap Message beside the notification to begin texting them. If you miss it, don't worry. Just scroll through the names under Contacts on WhatsApp and tap the name you want to text.
Adding someone on WhatsApp without phone numbers
- Open your preferred mobile browser and type wa.me/[country code + phone number] into the address bar. For example, wa.me/+2341122334499. Press the enter button on your keyboard to search.
- WhatsApp will redirect you to another page, informing you that you're about to start a conversation with the phone number. Tap Continue to Chat, and you'll immediately enter their direct message screen.
Adding unsaved numbers to contacts
- Open a conversation with an unsaved number on WhatsApp. Then tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner.
- Go to Add to contacts > Create new contact.
- WhatsApp auto-fills their name and phone number. You may edit this information if you like. Tap Save to complete the process.
A future WhatsApp update will make it easier to add people
WhatsApp is working on a new username selection feature. With it, you can create a unique identity and search for people the same way you do on Instagram, Twitter, and other social apps. It's a more convenient connection option as usernames are easier to remember, and you're not forced to save anyone's phone number. Already, the feature is available to select testers in the app's Beta program, and should roll out soon.
