# SMS (Android)

Connect your Android phone to WhatSnap to send and receive SMS messages directly through GoHighLevel. This personal device integration (P2P) gives you the power of your own phone number combined with GHL's automation capabilities—perfect for local outreach, database reactivations, and relationship-based messaging.

{% hint style="success" %}
**Personal Device Power**: Using your own Android phone for SMS allows you to leverage your personal or business number with carrier-level deliverability, all managed through GoHighLevel.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Important Usage Guidelines**:

* SMS accounts are designed for **relationship-based messaging**, not spam or mass marketing
* Start slow and warm up your SIM card to avoid carrier blocks
* Recommended approach: **1 message per minute** maximum once warmed up
* Your Android device must remain **powered on and connected to the internet** for messages to send/receive
* Best suited for: Database reactivations, sales follow-ups, customer service, local outreach
  {% endhint %}

## Prerequisites

Before connecting your Android device to WhatSnap, ensure you have:

* ✅ **Android Phone** with Android 9.0 or higher
* ✅ **2 GB RAM minimum** (4 GB recommended for optimal performance)
* ✅ **Active SIM card** with SMS capability
* ✅ **Working camera** for QR code scanning during login
* ✅ **WhatSnap account** connected to your GoHighLevel sub-account
* ✅ **Stable internet connection** (WiFi or mobile data)

{% hint style="info" %}
**Hardware Requirements**: Not sure if your device is compatible? Check our [**SMS Device Specifications**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/sms-specifications) guide for detailed hardware requirements, recommended phone models, and SIM plan recommendations.
{% endhint %}

## Overview: How SMS Integration Works

{% @mermaid/diagram content="graph TD;
A\["📱 Android Phone + SIM"] --> B\["📲 WhatSnap Gateway App"];
B --> C\["🔗 WhatSnap Cloud"];
C --> D\["🏢 GoHighLevel"];
D --> E\["💬 Send/Receive SMS"];
E --> F{Message Direction};
F -->|"📤 Outbound"| G\["📨 Sent via Your SIM"];
F -->|"📥 Inbound"| H\["📩 Received on Phone"];
G --> I\["✅ SMS Delivered"];
H --> J\["✅ Synced to GHL"];

```
classDef android fill:#e3f2fd,stroke:#1976d2,stroke-width:3px,color:#000000;
classDef whatsnap fill:#f3e5f5,stroke:#7b1fa2,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;
classDef ghl fill:#e8f5e8,stroke:#00695c,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;
classDef message fill:#e1f5fe,stroke:#3f51b5,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;

class A,B android;
class C whatsnap;
class D ghl;
class E,F,G,H,I,J message;" %}
```

## Quick Start Guide

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Choose Your SIM Plan

Select an appropriate SMS plan with unlimited or high-volume SMS capability. Most countries offer plans for around $10-20/month.

**Key Considerations:**

* Choose unlimited SMS plans when available
* Direct carrier plans typically have fewer restrictions than resellers
* Check fair use policies before purchasing

See our [**SIM Plan Recommendations**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms-specifications#sim-plan-recommendations) for country-specific providers.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Prepare Your Android Device

Before installing the WhatSnap gateway app, configure your device settings:

1. **Disable Play Protect** (prevents installation blocking)
2. **Turn off RCS** (Rich Communication Services) - see [RCS Settings](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/faq/sms/rcs-settings)
3. **Enable app permissions** for SMS, Phone, and Camera
4. **Configure power settings** to prevent the app from sleeping

Full instructions: [**SMS Installation & Setup**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/sms-installation-setup)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Install WhatSnap Gateway App

1. Download the WhatSnap Gateway APK from your WhatSnap dashboard
2. Install the app on your Android device
3. Grant all required permissions
4. Scan QR code to authenticate
5. Start the gateway service

Detailed walkthrough: [**Installation Guide**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/sms-installation-setup)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Connect to GoHighLevel

1. Access your WhatSnap dashboard in GoHighLevel
2. Navigate to **Connected Accounts** → **Add Account**
3. Select **"SMS/iMessage (P2P)"** → **Android**
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to link your device
5. Assign the device to your sub-account
6. Configure your account tag for message routing

{% hint style="success" %}
**Connection Complete!** Your Android device is now bridging your SMS to GoHighLevel through WhatSnap.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Send Your First Test SMS

1. Open a contact in GoHighLevel
2. Add your SMS account tag (e.g., `whatsnap-account-android-1`)
3. Navigate to the SMS conversation tab
4. Type and send a test message
5. Verify delivery on your Android device

{% hint style="info" %}
**Start Slow**: For new SIM cards, begin with low volume (1 message every 5-10 minutes) to warm up your number and avoid carrier restrictions.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Understanding Message Routing

### How WhatSnap Routes SMS Messages

{% @mermaid/diagram content="graph TD;
A\["👤 GHL User Sends Message"] --> B\["🏷️ Check Contact Tag"];
B --> C{Has SMS Account Tag?};
C -->|"✅ Yes"| D\["📱 Route to Android Device"];
C -->|"❌ No"| E\["❌ Error: No Account Tag"];
D --> F{Device Online?};
F -->|"✅ Yes"| G\["📲 Gateway App Processes"];
F -->|"❌ No"| H\["❌ Failed: Device Offline"];
G --> I{SIM Active?};
I -->|"✅ Yes"| J\["📨 Send via Carrier"];
I -->|"❌ No"| K\["❌ Failed: SIM Issue"];
J --> L\["✅ SMS Delivered"];

```
classDef user fill:#e3f2fd,stroke:#1976d2,stroke-width:3px,color:#000000;
classDef process fill:#f3e5f5,stroke:#7b1fa2,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;
classDef decision fill:#e1f5fe,stroke:#3f51b5,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;
classDef success fill:#e8f5e8,stroke:#00695c,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;
classDef error fill:#ffebee,stroke:#c62828,stroke-width:2px,color:#000000;

class A user;
class B,D,G,J process;
class C,F,I decision;
class L success;
class E,H,K error;" %}
```

### Tag-Based Contact Assignment

WhatSnap uses tags to determine which Android device/SIM handles each contact:

1. **Automatic Assignment**: When someone texts your number, WhatSnap auto-creates a GHL contact with your device's tag
2. **Manual Assignment**: Add the tag manually to route specific contacts to specific devices
3. **Multi-SIM Strategy**: Use different tags for different SIM cards to distribute volume

**Example Tags:**

* `whatsnap-account-android-main` - Primary SMS device
* `whatsnap-account-android-sales` - Sales team device
* `whatsnap-account-android-support` - Customer support device

## Use Cases and Volume Guidelines

### Perfect For:

**✅ Database Reactivation Campaigns**

* Reconnect with old leads and customers
* Personal touch with your real phone number
* Controlled volume with proper warm-up strategy
* See: [**Database Reactivation Guide**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/broken-reference)

**✅ Local Business Outreach**

* Local area code builds trust
* Personal number for authentic conversations
* Ideal for service-based businesses

**✅ Sales Follow-Ups**

* Continue conversations with qualified leads
* Personal touch increases response rates
* Track all interactions in GHL

**✅ Customer Service**

* Direct line to your business
* Fast, personal responses
* Full conversation history in CRM

### Volume Recommendations

| Stage                 | Volume Guideline             | Duration          |
| --------------------- | ---------------------------- | ----------------- |
| **New SIM - Day 1-3** | 1 message every 5-10 minutes | Warm-up period    |
| **New SIM - Day 4-7** | 1 message every 2-3 minutes  | Gradual increase  |
| **Warmed SIM**        | 1 message per minute         | Ongoing maximum   |
| **Daily Maximum**     | 100-250 messages/day         | Varies by carrier |

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Avoid Carrier Blocks**: Sending too many messages too quickly on a new SIM will trigger carrier spam filters. Always warm up new numbers gradually over 7-14 days.
{% endhint %}

### Not Ideal For:

* ❌ High-volume mass marketing (use Twilio instead)
* ❌ International messaging (use WhatsApp)
* ❌ Bulk promotional blasts without warm-up
* ❌ Spam or unsolicited messages

## Best Practices

### SIM Card Warm-Up Process

**Critical for success**: New SIM cards must be warmed up to establish sending reputation.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Week 1 Strategy" %}
**Days 1-3: Ultra Conservative**

* Send 10-20 messages per day maximum
* 1 message every 5-10 minutes
* Use natural, conversational language
* Engage with responses immediately

**Days 4-7: Gradual Increase**

* Increase to 30-50 messages per day
* 1 message every 2-3 minutes
* Continue conversational messaging
* Monitor for any delivery issues

**Week 2: Scale Up**

* Increase to 75-150 messages per day
* 1 message every 1-2 minutes
* Settle into your sustainable volume
* Track delivery rates
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Message Quality" %}
**Maintain Authenticity**

**Do:**

* ✅ Use recipient's name and personalization
* ✅ Write natural, conversational messages
* ✅ Vary your message content
* ✅ Respond to replies promptly
* ✅ Respect opt-outs immediately

**Don't:**

* ❌ Send identical messages to multiple people
* ❌ Include links in initial messages
* ❌ Use spam trigger words excessively
* ❌ Ignore unsubscribe requests
* ❌ Send messages late at night
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Device Management" %}
**Keep Your Device Ready**

**Power Settings:**

* Disable battery optimization for WhatSnap Gateway app
* Keep device plugged in 24/7
* Prevent automatic sleep/power-off
* Disable automatic updates during business hours

**Gateway App:**

* Keep app running in foreground when possible
* Check connection status daily
* Monitor for permission changes
* Update app only during off-hours

**Internet Connection:**

* Use WiFi for stability (mobile data as backup)
* Ensure strong, reliable connection
* Consider dedicated WiFi network for SMS devices
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

## Multi-Device SMS Strategy

### Adding Multiple SIM Cards

Scale your SMS operations by connecting multiple Android devices:

**Benefits:**

* **Higher volume capacity** - Each SIM adds 100-250 messages/day
* **Load distribution** - Spread messages across multiple numbers
* **Department separation** - Different numbers for sales, support, marketing
* **Redundancy** - Backup if one device/SIM has issues

**Setup:**

1. Connect each Android device separately
2. Each gets a unique account tag
3. Use GHL workflows to distribute contacts across devices
4. Monitor each device's performance individually

See: [**Multiple SMS Accounts Guide**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/multiple-sms-accounts)

### Reply Management with Multiple SIMs

When using multiple SMS devices, handle replies correctly:

* **Contact Assignment**: Assign contacts to specific GHL users matching each SIM
* **User Login**: Log in as the assigned user to reply from the correct number
* **Filter Views**: Use conversation filters to see messages by SIM/user
* **Consistent Routing**: Keep conversations with each contact on the same number

Full instructions: [**Multiple SMS Accounts - Reply Handling**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/multiple-sms-accounts#reply-management)

## Workflow Automation with SMS

### Using SMS in GHL Workflows

When using **SMS Channel Override**, your workflows work automatically:

**Example Workflow - Database Reactivation:**

```
Trigger: Tag added → "whatsnap-account-android-main"
Wait: 5 minutes
Action: Send SMS
Message: "Hi {{first_name}}, it's been a while! We've got some exciting updates to share. Are you still interested in [service/product]?"
Wait: Response or 2 days
Condition: If replied → Continue conversation
Condition: If no reply → Tag as "No Response" and remove from campaign
```

**Key Points:**

* Use standard **"Send SMS"** actions in workflows
* Messages automatically route through tagged Android device
* Personalization variables work normally
* Track responses and engagement

### Advanced: Using #switch Commands

Switch between messaging accounts dynamically:

**Permanently switch to specific SMS device:**

```
#switch|whatsnap-account-android-sales Hi {{first_name}}, I'm following up on your inquiry...
```

**Send one message via SMS, then return to original account:**

```
#switch_unique|whatsnap-account-android-main Quick text update: Your appointment is confirmed for tomorrow at 2pm.
```

## Compliance and Legal Considerations

### SMS Compliance Best Practices

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Legal Requirements**: SMS messaging is heavily regulated. Always follow TCPA (US), GDPR (EU), and local regulations.
{% endhint %}

**Required Practices:**

* ✅ **Obtain consent** before messaging (opt-in required)
* ✅ **Honor opt-outs** immediately (within 24 hours)
* ✅ **Identify your business** in messages
* ✅ **Provide opt-out instructions** ("Reply STOP to opt out")
* ✅ **Keep records** of consent and opt-outs
* ✅ **Respect quiet hours** (no messaging late night/early morning)

**Prohibited Activities:**

* ❌ Purchasing contact lists and messaging without consent
* ❌ Ignoring opt-out requests
* ❌ Misleading or deceptive messages
* ❌ Messaging numbers on Do Not Call registries without proper exemption

### WhatSnap Compliance Features

WhatSnap includes built-in compliance tools:

* **Auto-DND on STOP**: Automatically add contacts to DND when they reply "STOP"
* **Opt-out tracking**: Monitor and manage opt-outs in GHL
* **Message logging**: Complete audit trail of all communications

## Troubleshooting

{% hint style="info" %}
**Need Help?** For comprehensive troubleshooting, see our detailed [**SMS Troubleshooting Guide**](https://github.com/WhatSnap/documentation/blob/main/Account-management/sms/troubleshooting-sms.md) with step-by-step solutions for all common issues.
{% endhint %}

### Quick Solutions for Common Issues

<details>

<summary>Messages Not Sending</summary>

**Possible Causes:**

* WhatSnap Gateway app not running on Android
* Device offline or no internet connection
* SIM card inactive or no signal
* Contact doesn't have SMS account tag
* Carrier block or restriction

**Solutions:**

1. Check that WhatSnap Gateway app is **running** on your Android device
2. Verify your device is **powered on** and **connected to internet**
3. Check **SIM card status** - ensure active and has signal
4. Verify contact has the **correct account tag** in GHL
5. Test by sending a regular SMS from your phone's native app
6. Restart the WhatSnap Gateway app
7. Check for carrier restrictions or blocks

**Still having issues?** See the complete [SMS Troubleshooting Guide](https://github.com/WhatSnap/documentation/blob/main/Account-management/sms/troubleshooting-sms.md).

</details>

<details>

<summary>SIM Card Blocked by Carrier</summary>

**Possible Causes:**

* Sent too many messages too quickly
* Spam-like content detected
* Exceeded carrier fair use policy
* Reported as spam by recipients

**Solutions:**

1. **Contact your carrier** immediately - explain legitimate business use
2. **Reduce volume** significantly for 48-72 hours
3. **Improve message quality** - make more personal and varied
4. **Warm up properly** if using a new SIM
5. Consider **switching to a different carrier** with higher limits
6. For persistent issues, use **Twilio for high-volume** instead

See: [Database Reactivations - Avoiding Blocks](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/broken-reference)

</details>

<details>

<summary>Device Going to Sleep / App Stopping</summary>

**Possible Causes:**

* Battery optimization killing the app
* Device entering deep sleep mode
* Manufacturer restrictions (some brands aggressive with background apps)

**Solutions:**

1. **Disable battery optimization** for WhatSnap Gateway app
2. Open Settings → Apps → WhatSnap Gateway → Battery → **Unrestricted**
3. Keep device **plugged in** constantly
4. Some cheap devices (e.g., Blade 51) may not support 24/7 operation
5. Consider upgrading to **recommended devices** (Nokia C31, Google Pixel, Motorola)

See: [SMS Device Specifications - Recommended Devices](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms-specifications#recommended-devices)

</details>

<details>

<summary>Incoming Messages Not Syncing to GHL</summary>

**Possible Causes:**

* Gateway app disconnected
* Permissions revoked
* Network connectivity issues
* App not set as default SMS handler

**Solutions:**

1. Check WhatSnap Gateway app **connection status**
2. Re-grant all **app permissions** (SMS, Phone, Notifications)
3. Verify **internet connection** on device
4. When prompted, set WhatSnap as **default SMS app** (only if you need MMS support)
5. Restart the Gateway app
6. Check WhatSnap dashboard to see if device shows as "Connected"

</details>

## Security and Privacy

### Data Protection

{% hint style="info" %}
**Your Data, Your Control**: The WhatSnap Gateway app on your Android device creates a secure bridge between your local SMS and WhatSnap cloud. Messages are encrypted in transit and processed according to our privacy policy.
{% endhint %}

**Security Features:**

* **Encrypted transmission** between device and WhatSnap cloud
* **Secure authentication** via QR code
* **Local SMS access** only - app doesn't store messages
* **No message retention** on WhatSnap servers beyond delivery
* **Compliance** with carrier terms of service

**Your Responsibilities:**

* Keep your **Android device secure** with screen lock
* Don't share your **authentication credentials**
* **Monitor usage** to stay within carrier limits
* **Protect SIM card** from unauthorized use
* Use **strong passwords** for your WhatSnap account

## Multi-Platform Strategy

### Combining SMS with Other Channels

WhatSnap allows you to use multiple messaging platforms together:

**Example Strategy:**

{% @mermaid/diagram content="graph LR;
A\["📢 Cold Outreach"] --> B{Target Location};
B -->|"🌍 International"| C\["WhatsApp Campaign"];
B -->|"🇺🇸 Local/Domestic"| D\["SMS Campaign"];
C --> E{Engaged?};
D --> E;
E -->|"✅ Yes"| F\["💬 Continue on Same Channel"];
E -->|"❌ No"| G\["📧 Email Follow-up"];
F --> H{Converted?};
H -->|"✅ Yes"| I\["📞 Twilio for Transactional"];
H -->|"❌ No"| J\["🔄 Nurture Sequence"];

```
classDef outreach fill:#e3f2fd,stroke:#1976d2,stroke-width:2px;
classDef engage fill:#f3e5f5,stroke:#7b1fa2,stroke-width:2px;
classDef convert fill:#e8f5e8,stroke:#00695c,stroke-width:2px;

class A,B,C,D outreach;
class E,F engage;
class I convert;" %}
```

**Platform Selection Guide:**

| Scenario                   | Best Platform  | Reason                                        |
| -------------------------- | -------------- | --------------------------------------------- |
| Local US/domestic outreach | Android SMS    | Local number, high trust, good deliverability |
| International messaging    | WhatsApp       | Global adoption, no SMS charges               |
| High-volume transactional  | Twilio SMS     | Reliability, compliance, SLA                  |
| Database reactivation      | Android SMS    | Personal touch, cost-effective                |
| VIP relationships          | iMessage (iOS) | Premium feel, high engagement                 |
| Appointment reminders      | Twilio SMS     | 99.95% uptime, consistent delivery            |

## Next Steps

After successfully connecting your Android SMS account:

1. [**SMS Device Specifications**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/sms-specifications) - Review hardware requirements and SIM plan recommendations
2. [**SMS Installation & Setup**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/sms-installation-setup) - Detailed installation walkthrough
3. [**Multiple SMS Accounts**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/sms/multiple-sms-accounts) - Connect multiple Android devices for increased capacity
4. [**Database Reactivations**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/broken-reference) - Master high-volume outreach campaigns with proper warm-up
5. [**FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/faq/sms) - Common questions about personal messages, number porting, RCS, and more
6. [**SMS Troubleshooting**](https://github.com/WhatSnap/documentation/blob/main/Account-management/sms/troubleshooting-sms.md) - Comprehensive guide for resolving issues
7. [**Account Settings**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/settings/account-settings) - Configure SMS-specific settings
8. [**Tag Management**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/account-management/settings/tag-management) - Master using tags to route messages
9. [**Conversations**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/conversations/messaging-basics) - Start messaging contacts through SMS
10. [**Workflow Integration**](https://whatsnap.gitbook.io/whatsnap-docs/conversations/workflow-automation) - Automate SMS communications

{% hint style="success" %}
**Ready to Message!** Your Android SMS account is now connected to WhatSnap. Remember to warm up your SIM properly and stay within carrier guidelines for best results.
{% endhint %}

***

**Questions or Issues?** Contact WhatSnap support at <support@whatsnap.ai> or check our troubleshooting guides for additional help.
