Creating a WhatsApp group

[nyt]

I'd like to create a WhatsApp group for the apartment block that I live in.

I've created the group but WhatsApp seems to only want to add people in my contacts list. For obvious reasons, I don't want to add over 100 near strangers to my contacts list. Is there a way to just add people using their phone number?

Thanks

[Jamescrs]

I havent found a way but I have found that you can add them to your contacts, then add them to the group and once they are in the group you can delete them from your own contacts and they remain in the group.

[nyt]

Thanks - that seems crazy but it may be the only way

[quinny100]

You can send an invitation link to other people via email or SMS which will allow them to join the group, otherwise they need to be in contacts at the point you add them. The link is generic to the group rather than an individual so it can be forwarded on, but it's a good idea to revoke the link once the group is established as anyone with the link can add themselves. You can create a new link at any time.

[Pixelpeep 135]

do the rest of the block know you are doing it?

Something to be aware of - everyone will have access to everyone else's phone number in the group.

Some might not want the creep in number 23 to have their number.

Also, if any of them work for the ICO and you haven't spoken to them first, expect some awkward letters!

[Corso Marche]

Another option (on Android anyhow) is to just create a separate Google/GMAIL acount and log into it on your device. Select Contacts as the only item it syncs/backs up.

Add the contact details of those other people.
When done launch WhatsApp and add/invite them to the group.

At this point you can remove the extra Google account with the Contacts list, or you can leave it on your phone but choose to only see/use your main Contacts list in the Contacts app.

If you remove it you can always add it again later anyhow, or login on a computer to check contact details etc

[nyt]

Thanks all - I've emailed a joining link as suggested above.

Adding about 100 contacts is too much effort and having people opt-in saves a lot of work.

15 joiners so far