WhatsApp & Pinephone - What are the alternatives for collaborative comms?

[rockjonn]

I have a problem I hope someone can help me solve.

I have a Pinephone and a client that I work with has asked if I can install a WhatsApp client on my phone in order to keep up with some group discussions there about a collaborative project. I've never used WhatsApp on any device, and after learning that it was bought by Facebook a few years back, I'm disinclined to use it.

I looked into the practicalities of setting up WhatsApp on Pinephone anyway, using an in-browser or stand-alone desktop client... and there's a major problem. You need to already have WhatsApp installed on an Android/Apple smartphone before your can set up a desktop client on a PC (or Pinephone).

Is it possible to establish a Whatsapp account without using an Android or Apple handset beforehand/simultaneously?

Is there anything that the WhatsApp platform offers that alternative platforms don't?

My preferred solution is to encourage the client to switch to an alternative collaborative chat/file sharing platform that is private and mobile friendly, but I'd need to convince a bunch of people to change platforms. What alternative(s) would you recommend?

Any advice will be warmly welcomed. FM whatsapp

WhatsApp requires initial setup and verification through an Android or Apple handset before using it on other devices, including Pinephone or desktop clients. Without setting it up on a smartphone first, you won't be able to use WhatsApp on other platforms.

switch to an alternative collaborative chat/file-sharing platform, there are several options available. Here are a few alternatives that prioritize privacy and are mobile-friendly:

    Signal: Signal is a highly secure messaging app known for its strong encryption and privacy features. It supports group chats, voice and video calls, and file sharing.

    Telegram: Telegram is a cloud-based messaging platform that offers end-to-end encryption for secret chats. It provides group chats, voice and video calls, and file sharing capabilities.

    Matrix/Riot: Matrix is an open standard for decentralized communication, and Riot is a Matrix-based messaging app. It offers group chats, voice and video calls, file sharing, and emphasizes privacy and interoperability.