WhatsApp is one of the most requested channels for OpenClaw. With over 2 billion users, it's the messaging app most people already have on their phone.
Here's how to connect OpenClaw to WhatsApp.
Two Ways to Connect
Option 1: Personal WhatsApp (QR Code)
The simplest method — link your existing WhatsApp account to OpenClaw, similar to WhatsApp Web.
Pros: Easy setup, works with your existing account Cons: Uses your personal number, one session limit
Option 2: WhatsApp Business API
A dedicated business number with proper API access.
Pros: Separate from personal WhatsApp, more reliable Cons: Requires Meta Business verification, more setup
For most personal use, Option 1 (QR Code) is the way to go.
Setup: QR Code Method
Step 1: Enable WhatsApp in OpenClaw
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.enabled true
Step 2: Start the Pairing
openclaw restart
OpenClaw will display a QR code in the terminal. If running headless (via SSH), check the logs:
openclaw logs | grep "QR"
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
- Open WhatsApp on your phone
- Go to Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device
- Scan the QR code from your terminal
Step 4: Verify
Send a message to yourself (or any contact) mentioning your bot. Check the logs to see if OpenClaw received it:
openclaw logs --follow
Setup: WhatsApp Business API
Prerequisites
- Meta Business account
- WhatsApp Business API access
- Phone number dedicated to the bot
Step 1: Install the WhatsApp Skill
openclaw plugins install whatsapp-business
Step 2: Configure Credentials
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.phoneNumberId "YOUR_PHONE_NUMBER_ID"
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.accessToken "YOUR_ACCESS_TOKEN"
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.verifyToken "YOUR_VERIFY_TOKEN"
Step 3: Set Up Webhook
Point your Meta webhook URL to your OpenClaw instance's WhatsApp endpoint. You'll need a public URL with HTTPS.
Step 4: Restart and Test
openclaw restart
Send a message to your business number on WhatsApp to verify.
Common Issues
QR code expired
QR codes expire after 60 seconds. Restart OpenClaw to generate a new one:
openclaw restart
"Session closed" errors
WhatsApp only allows one linked session at a time. If you're already using WhatsApp Web, you may need to disconnect it first.
Messages not arriving
- Check that WhatsApp channel is enabled in config
- Verify your internet connection on the server
- Check logs for authentication errors
Recommendation: Use a Separate Number
OpenClaw recommends running WhatsApp on a separate phone number when possible. This avoids conflicts with your personal WhatsApp usage.
WhatsApp on ClawTank
WhatsApp integration is coming soon to ClawTank. Currently, ClawTank supports Telegram as the primary channel.
In the meantime, Telegram offers a similar (and in many ways better) experience for AI assistants:
- Purpose-built Bot API
- No QR code scanning needed
- Rich formatting and inline buttons
- Group chat support
- Free and unlimited
Get Started with Telegram
While WhatsApp support is in development, deploy OpenClaw with Telegram on ClawTank — one click, under 1 minute, no Docker required.
We'll notify all users when WhatsApp integration is available.