Douyin without a phone number

How to Create a Douyin Account Without a Phone Number (Simplified Guide)

January 24, 2025 / Guides / By / 6 minutes of reading

Introduction

Douyin, the Chinese version of the globally popular TikTok, is a powerhouse in the world of social media. With over 755 million monthly users, it serves as a hub for creative video content, entertainment, and e-commerce. However, creating a Douyin account typically requires phone number verification, which raises privacy concerns for many users.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to create a Douyin account without using your personal phone number, using options like temporary phone numbers, virtual numbers, and third-party logins. Let’s dive in!

Why Use Douyin? How It Differs from Xiaohongshu

Douyin is designed for mass appeal, making it a go-to platform for everyday users seeking entertainment and social connections. On the other hand, Xiaohongshu (‘RedNote’) caters primarily to middle to upper-class Chinese users, focusing on curated lifestyle content, high-end products, and luxury trends. In contrast, Douyin’s broader reach and casual tone make it a cultural cornerstone for a wider audience, including influencers, small businesses, and everyday creators.

Whether you’re looking to become the next viral sensation or tap into the vast Chinese market, Douyin provides the perfect platform – as long as you can navigate its strict phone verification requirements.

Why Avoid Using Your Personal Phone Number for Douyin?

Using your personal phone number to create a Douyin account comes with a few risks:

  1. Privacy Concerns: Sharing your phone number can expose your personal data, leading to potential privacy breaches.
  2. Spam and Unwanted Contacts: Platforms may share or sell phone numbers, increasing the risk of spam calls or messages.
  3. Cross-Platform Linking: Your phone number can be linked across multiple platforms, reducing your ability to maintain anonymity.

To protect your privacy while enjoying Douyin’s features, consider using temporary or virtual phone numbers instead.

How to Create a Douyin Account Without a Phone Number

A. Using Virtual Phone Numbers

Virtual phone numbers are an excellent way to sign up for Douyin without exposing your real number. These numbers function like regular phone numbers, allowing you to receive verification codes needed to create your account.

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Choose a Virtual Number Provider: Select a reliable service like MobileSMS.io, which provides real SIM-card-based numbers.
  2. Purchase a Virtual Number: Opt for a number from China or a region that works with Douyin.
  3. Download Douyin: Install the Douyin app on your device.
  4. Start Registration: Choose the phone number option during the signup process.
  5. Enter the Virtual Number: Input the virtual number you purchased.
  6. Receive the Verification Code: Use the provider’s app or dashboard to access the SMS code sent by Douyin.
  7. Complete the Process: Enter the code on Douyin and finish setting up your account.

Pros:

  • Protects your real phone number and privacy.
  • Simple process with providers like MobileSMS.io.

Cons:

  • Virtual numbers may face occasional SMS delays or failures.
  • Shared numbers with other users could lead to verification issues.

B. Using Temporary Phone Numbers

Temporary phone numbers are disposable numbers that work for one-time verifications. Services like MobileSMS.io offer real SIM-card-based temporary numbers specifically for platforms like Douyin.

How to Use a Temporary Number for Douyin:

  1. Sign Up for a Temporary Number Service: Use a provider like MobileSMS.io for a secure, one-time-use number.
  2. Open the Douyin App: Launch the app and select the signup option.
  3. Enter the Temporary Number: Provide the temporary number during registration.
  4. Retrieve the Code: Check the number provider’s dashboard for the verification code.
  5. Complete Registration: Enter the code into Douyin and finalize your account setup.

Pros:

  • Disposable nature ensures maximum privacy.
  • Easy and quick to obtain.

Cons:

  • Limited lifespan; recovery may be challenging if the account is locked.
  • Potential issues with SMS delivery.

C. Using Third-Party Logins (WeChat, QQ, etc.)

Douyin also allows users to sign up by linking existing accounts from popular Chinese platforms like WeChat, QQ, or Weibo. This option bypasses the need for phone verification entirely.

How to Link Third-Party Accounts:

  1. Open Douyin Registration: Choose the option to sign up using a third-party app.
  2. Select a Platform: Pick WeChat, QQ, or another supported app.
  3. Authenticate: Approve the connection between your Douyin account and the third-party app.
  4. Profile Setup: Douyin will retrieve your account details from the linked platform to complete registration.

Pros:

  • No need for a phone number.
  • Faster signup process.

Cons:

  • Privacy concerns with data sharing between platforms.
  • Dependence on the linked account’s security.

Why MobileSMS.io is the Best Solution for Douyin Verification

Among the options discussed, using MobileSMS.io for a virtual or temporary phone number stands out as the most reliable and secure method. Here’s why:

  1. Real SIM-Card Numbers: Unlike VoIP numbers that Douyin often blocks, MobileSMS.io provides real SIM-card-based numbers that work seamlessly with Douyin.
  2. Global Coverage: Numbers are available from over 100 countries, including China, ensuring compatibility with regional restrictions.
  3. Instant Access: Numbers are provided immediately, and verification codes are displayed in real-time on your dashboard.
  4. Enhanced Privacy: Temporary and virtual numbers protect your personal data while maintaining full access to Douyin features.

With MobileSMS.io, you can bypass the hassles of traditional phone verification and enjoy Douyin’s offerings worry-free.

FAQs

Q: How can I verify my Douyin account? A: To verify your Douyin account, go to the settings and select “Account Verification.” You can choose to verify with an ID, phone number, or social media account. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Q: Is it legal to use a temporary number for Douyin? A: Yes, using a temporary number is generally legal, but ensure you comply with Douyin’s terms of service and avoid activities that violate their guidelines.

Q: Can I reuse a temporary number for Douyin? A: Temporary numbers are typically designed for single-use verification. If you need long-term access, consider using a long-term rental number from MobileSMS.io.

Q: What should I do if my verification code doesn’t arrive? A: Ensure your VPN matches the region of the number. If issues persist, try a different number or contact your provider’s support team.

Q: How does Douyin’s audience differ from Xiaohongshu’s? A: While Xiaohongshu caters to middle to upper-class users with a focus on luxury and curated content, Douyin appeals to the general population with its broad, casual, and entertainment-driven approach.

Conclusion

Creating a Douyin account without a phone number is possible with the right tools and strategies. Whether you choose a virtual number, a temporary number, or a third-party login, each method has its own advantages. For the best balance of privacy, reliability, and ease of use, MobileSMS.io offers the ideal solution for obtaining a secure phone number for Douyin verification.

Take control of your privacy while enjoying everything Douyin has to offer. Explore MobileSMS.io today!