In 2018, WhatsApp introduced the WhatsApp Business API as a game-changer for medium to large businesses. The goal was to provide a powerful solution for companies to engage with their customers at scale, automate responses, and streamline customer service through WhatsApp, the world’s most popular messaging platform. The API was designed for businesses that needed to manage a high volume of customer interactions efficiently.
In this blog, we will dive into the differences between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp Business API, explore the key features that set the API apart, and walk you through how to apply for it. By the end, you’ll understand why the WhatsApp Business API is essential for businesses in 2025.
What is WhatsApp Business API?
The WhatsApp Business API is a powerful tool designed for medium and large businesses to communicate with their customers at scale through WhatsApp. Unlike the regular WhatsApp Business app, built for small businesses, the API allows companies to automate messages, provide customer support, and send notifications efficiently. It integrates seamlessly with other platforms, enabling businesses to handle many inquiries while maintaining personalized, real-time interactions. The WhatsApp Business API is ideal for companies that need more advanced messaging capabilities to manage customer relationships effectively.
What is the Difference Between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp Business API?
There are 5 main differences between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp Business API:
1. Purpose:
WhatsApp Business is designed for small businesses to directly engage with customers. At the same time, WhatsApp Business API caters to medium and large companies that need to manage large-scale customer communication through automation and integration with CRM systems.
2. Automation
WhatsApp Business allows limited automated responses through quick replies and labels. In contrast, the API enables fully automated workflows, chatbots, and advanced customer service features, making it ideal for handling high volumes of inquiries.
3. User Interface
WhatsApp Business has a simple mobile app interface, while the API does not have an interface. Instead, it integrates with existing business systems and third-party platforms, allowing businesses to handle customer interactions in a centralized, customizable way.
4. Multi-Agent Support
With WhatsApp Business, only one person can manage the account from one device. However, the WhatsApp Business API supports multiple agents and devices, making it easier for large teams to handle customer conversations simultaneously.
5. Green Tick Verification
WhatsApp Business API offers the opportunity to apply for a green tick verification badge, which builds customer trust by showing that the account is an official business. The standard WhatsApp Business app does not offer this feature.
What are the Features of WhatsApp Business API?
There are 9 main features of the WhatsApp Business API that make it an essential tool for large-scale businesses looking to enhance customer communication:
1. Broadcast
With the WhatsApp Business API, businesses can simultaneously send broadcast messages to many customers. This feature is excellent for sending updates, promotions, or important announcements without the limitations of individual conversations. Learn more about Broadcast Messaging.
2. WhatsApp Automation
Automation is one of the key features of the WhatsApp Business API. Businesses can automate responses, workflows, and notifications, reducing the time spent on manual customer interactions while ensuring a quick and efficient response system. Explore WhatsApp Automation.
3. WhatsApp Chatbot:
The API allows businesses to deploy chatbots for 24/7 customer support. WhatsApp Chatbots can answer frequently asked questions, guide users through purchasing processes, or assist with troubleshooting. This helps companies to handle high volumes of inquiries without needing a dedicated support team. Discover WhatsApp Chatbots.
4. Message Types
The API supports various message types, including text, images, videos, documents, etc. This flexibility allows businesses to engage with customers using the most appropriate format for their needs. Understand Different Message Types.
5. Webhooks
Webhooks in the API allow businesses to receive real-time updates when certain events occur, like receiving a new message or an interaction with a chatbot. This helps with tracking customer interactions and responding immediately. Learn More About Webhooks.
6. WhatsApp Green Tick
Businesses using the API can apply for the official green tick verification, which appears next to their business name. This builds trust with customers, ensuring they interact with a legitimate business. Get the WhatsApp Green Tick.
7. Integrations
The WhatsApp Business API can easily integrate with CRM platforms, customer support systems, and third-party software. This helps streamline communication by bringing all customer interactions into a single platform. Explore WhatsApp Integrations.
8. WhatsApp Flows
Businesses can create predefined WhatsApp flows that guide customers through steps like troubleshooting or purchasing processes. These flows help customers get the support they need quickly and effectively. Discover WhatsApp Flows.
9.Click-to-WhatsApp Ad
The API integrates with Facebook Ads to allow click-to-WhatsApp ads. These ads let users initiate a conversation with businesses directly from the ad, driving engagement and potential sales. Explore click-to-WhatsApp ads.
These features empower businesses to engage with their customers in meaningful and scalable ways through the WhatsApp Business API.
What are the Prerequisites to Getting WhatsApp Business API?
Businesses must meet a few essential prerequisites before applying for the WhatsApp Business API. These requirements ensure that only legitimate, well-established businesses can use the API to manage customer communications. Here are the key prerequisites:
1. Business Verification
Your business must be verified by Facebook (Meta) through their Business Manager. This involves providing legal documentation to prove your business’s authenticity, ensuring only legitimate companies use the WhatsApp Business API.
2. Facebook Business Manager Account:
To apply for the API, you need an active and verified Facebook Business Manager account. This account will be the central hub for managing your WhatsApp Business API integration and related activities.
3. WhatsApp Number:
You must have a dedicated phone number for WhatsApp Business API. This number should not be linked to an existing WhatsApp account, as it will be used exclusively for the API integration.
4. Approved Use Case:
WhatsApp Business API is only available for specific use cases, such as customer service, notifications, and transactional messages. Marketing and promotional messages are restricted, so your business must fit these approved use cases.
5. WhatsApp Solution Provider:
Most businesses must use an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP) to set up and manage the API integration. These providers help companies to connect the API to their systems and ensure smooth operation.
How to Apply for WhatsApp Business API?
Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to apply for the WhatsApp Business API:
1. Create a Facebook Business Manager Account:
Head over to business.facebook.com and create or log into your Facebook Business Manager account. Make sure your account is verified with the required business details.
2. Choose a WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP):
Partner with an official BSP like Chatbot.team to assist you in applying for and setting up the API. These providers ensure seamless integration with your systems.
3. Submit Business Information
Once you have your BSP, provide them with your verified Facebook Business Manager account details, a dedicated phone number, and information about your use case for the API.
4. Get Approval for WhatsApp Business API
The BSP will submit your application to WhatsApp. Meta usually takes a few business days to review and approve your application to ensure your business meets the API requirements.
5. Integrate WhatsApp Business API
After approval, your BSP will help integrate the API into your existing customer relationship management (CRM) or messaging platforms, allowing you to start communicating with customers at scale.
Is WhatsApp Business API Free?
No, the WhatsApp Business API is not free. Unlike the standard WhatsApp Business app, which is unrestricted, the API comes with associated costs based on the type and volume of messages sent. Businesses are charged per message; the rates can vary depending on the message type (e.g., session or template messages). For more details on the pricing structure, refer to the WhatsApp Business API Pricing section below.
What is the Pricing for WhatsApp Business API?
The pricing for the WhatsApp Business API is based on a per-message model, and Meta (formerly Facebook) charges businesses according to the type of message they send. There are two main types of messages:
1. Session Messages
These messages are sent in response to a customer’s inquiry within a 24-hour. Meta typically charges a lower fee for session messages since they are part of an active customer conversation. The cost varies depending on your region and BSP (Business Solution Provider).
2. Template Messages
These are pre-approved, business-initiated messages sent after the 24-hour session window. Template messages are often used for notifications, updates, and alerts. These messages generally cost more per message than session messages and are priced based on the country where the message is sent.
Additionally, the pricing structure may vary depending on your chosen WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, and some may offer bundles or discounts based on message volume. Businesses can manage their costs by optimizing their message strategy and using session messages whenever possible.
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