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Log in with Phone Number

The Log in with phone number feature lets you connect a WhatsApp account to GoGHL.ai using a short 8-character code instead of scanning a QR code. WhatsApp calls this "linking with phone number," and it's the perfect alternative when you can't scan the QR code—for example, when you're setting up on the same phone that holds WhatsApp, or when the camera can't reach the screen.

Instead of pointing your phone's camera at a QR code, GoGHL.ai shows you a code, and you type that code into WhatsApp on your phone to link the device.

When to Use It​

Camera can't scan - The QR code won't scan because of screen glare, a damaged camera, or display issues.

Remote setup - It's easier to read out or paste a code than to share a scannable QR image.

Before You Start​

  • The WhatsApp account you want to connect must be active on your phone.
  • Keep your phone nearby and unlocked during setup.
  • Make sure both devices have a stable internet connection.

Step-by-Step Setup​

Step 1: Open the WhatsApp Connection Screen​

  1. Log into your CRM dashboard.
  2. Click WhatsApp in the left sidebar.
  3. Select the WhatsApp instance and click Manage to open the connection screen.
  4. You'll see the QR code and, just below it, a Log in with phone number button.

WhatsApp connection screen with the Log in with phone number button

Step 2: Enter Your Phone Number​

  1. Click Log in with phone number.
  2. Select your country from the dropdown.
  3. Enter the phone number tied to the WhatsApp account you're connecting.
  4. Click Next.

Tip: If you'd rather scan the QR code instead, click Log in with QR code to switch back at any time.

Enter the phone number for the WhatsApp account

Step 3: Get Your 8-Character Code​

GoGHL.ai displays an 8-character code (for example, QDV8-CG7V). You'll enter this code into WhatsApp on your phone.

  • Click Copy code to copy it to your clipboard.
  • The code expires after a short time—if it does, request a new one.

GoGHL.ai displays the 8-character linking code

Step 4: Confirm the Device​

WhatsApp asks you to confirm the new device—for example, "Chrome (Mac OS) is attempting to link to your WhatsApp account." Tap Confirm to continue.

WhatsApp confirms the linked device

Step 5: Open the Code Entry Screen in WhatsApp​

On your phone:

  1. Open WhatsApp.
  2. Tap Menu (three dots) on Android, or Settings on iPhone.
  3. Tap Linked Devices, then tap Link a Device.
  4. Tap Link with phone number instead.
  5. WhatsApp shows an empty 8-box Enter code screen.
WhatsApp Enter code screen on the phone

Step 6: Enter the Code​

Type (or paste) the 8-character code from GoGHL.ai into WhatsApp. WhatsApp shows Logging in… while it links the device.

Security: Never enter a code you didn't request yourself.

Entering the code in WhatsApp shows Logging in

Step 7: Connection Complete​

Back in GoGHL.ai, the screen updates to WhatsApp Connected with a Successfully Connected message. Your WhatsApp account is now linked and ready to send and receive messages from this location.

GoGHL.ai shows WhatsApp successfully connected

Important Notes​

  • Codes are time-limited. If the code expires before you enter it, generate a new one from the connection screen.
  • One account per instance. Only one WhatsApp account can be connected per instance.
  • Phone number must match. Enter the number for the exact WhatsApp account you want to connect.
  • Keep your phone unlocked during setup so the confirmation prompt can appear.

Troubleshooting​

The Code Doesn't Work​

  • Make sure you typed all 8 characters exactly as shown, including the correct case.
  • The code may have expired—request a new one and try again.

The Phone Number Is Rejected​

  • Double-check the country code and number.
  • Use the number tied to the WhatsApp account you're connecting.

No Confirmation Prompt Appears​

  • Keep your phone unlocked and WhatsApp open during setup.
  • Check your internet connection on both devices.
  • Restart the process from the connection screen if it stalls.

Prefer to Scan Instead​

  • Click Log in with QR code to switch back to the standard QR scanning method.

FAQs​

What is "Log in with phone number"?

It is an alternative to scanning the QR code. GoGHL.ai shows you an 8-character code, and you type that code into WhatsApp on your phone to link the device.

When should I use this instead of the QR code?

Use it when you cannot scan the QR code—for example, when the dashboard is open on the same phone that has WhatsApp, or when your camera cannot read the QR code.

How long is the code valid?

The code is time-limited. If it expires before you enter it, generate a new one from the connection screen.

Is it safe to enter the code?

Yes, as long as you requested it yourself. Never enter a code you did not request. WhatsApp also asks you to confirm the device before linking completes.

Which phone number should I enter?

Enter the number tied to the exact WhatsApp account you want to connect, with the correct country code.

Can I switch back to the QR code method?

Yes. Click "Log in with QR code" on the connection screen to return to standard QR scanning at any time.
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