How to Connect OpenClaw to WhatsApp — 2026 Guide
Connect your OpenClaw agent to WhatsApp using the WhatsApp Business API or compatible bridges. Message your AI agent from WhatsApp just like any contact.
· Updated March 2026 · 10 min read WhatsApp is the hardest messaging platform to connect to OpenClaw — Meta's API is intentionally restrictive. But once you're set up, it's incredibly powerful because everyone has WhatsApp. Here are both the official and community approaches.
Option 1: WhatsApp Business API (Official)
This is the right way if you're using WhatsApp for business purposes:
- Create a Meta Business account at business.facebook.com
- Set up a WhatsApp Business API app in Meta Developers
- Verify your phone number and business
- Get your access token and phone number ID
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.provider meta
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.token YOUR_ACCESS_TOKEN
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.phoneNumberId YOUR_PHONE_ID
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.webhookSecret YOUR_WEBHOOK_SECRETYou'll also need a public webhook URL for Meta to send messages to. Use Cloudflare Tunnel:
cloudflared tunnel create openclaw-whatsapp
# Point webhook to: https://your-tunnel-url.trycloudflare.com/webhook/whatsappOption 2: Community Bridge (Personal Use)
For personal use, some users connect a personal WhatsApp number using the unofficial WhatsApp Web protocol. This requires self-hosting a bridge and carries ToS risk. OpenClaw supports this via the whatsapp-web provider:
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.provider whatsapp-web
# Scan the QR code that appears in your terminalTesting the Connection
openclaw gateway restart
# Send a WhatsApp message to your connected numberWhat You Can Do with WhatsApp + OpenClaw
- Voice note transcription — send a voice note, get a text response
- Document analysis — forward a PDF, ask questions about it
- Quick lookups — ask anything without switching apps
- Business automation — handle customer queries automatically
The OpenClaw Playbook covers the full WhatsApp Business API setup including webhook configuration, handling message templates for outbound business messages, and compliance requirements for business messaging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a WhatsApp Business account to use OpenClaw with WhatsApp?
Yes, the official WhatsApp Cloud API requires a Meta Business account and phone number verification. The setup process takes 1-3 days for verification.
Is there a simpler way to connect OpenClaw to WhatsApp?
Yes, community bridges like whatsmeow or Baileys allow connecting a personal WhatsApp number. These are unofficial and against WhatsApp's ToS, so use them at your own risk — accounts can be banned.
Can OpenClaw send media files through WhatsApp?
Yes, with the official Business API you can send images, PDFs, and audio. The unofficial bridges also support media but with more limitations.
What are the message limits on WhatsApp for bots?
The official WhatsApp Business API allows 1,000 business-initiated conversations per month on the free tier. User-initiated conversations (when someone messages you first) are unlimited.
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