Definition
WhatsApp Business API (WhatsApp Business Platform)
The WhatsApp Business API, now called the WhatsApp Business Platform, is Meta's official way for businesses to send and receive WhatsApp messages at scale through software, chatbots and CRMs.
The free WhatsApp Business app works on one or a few phones. The WhatsApp Business Platform connects WhatsApp to software, so many staff, chatbots and AI agents can handle conversations, and messages can be logged in a CRM.
Businesses must collect opt-in before messaging customers, use Meta-approved templates for messages sent outside a customer service window, and follow WhatsApp's commerce and business policies. Meta charges per message for certain message types, with rates that vary by country.
The WhatsApp Business API in practice
A real estate developer connects its WhatsApp number to the platform. An AI agent answers project questions instantly, sends payment plans, books site visits and passes serious buyers to sales staff, with every chat saved in the CRM.
Common questions about the WhatsApp Business API
Is the WhatsApp Business API free?
Access is available through Meta or business solution providers, and Meta charges for certain messages, such as marketing templates, with rates set by country.
What's the difference between the WhatsApp Business app and the API?
The app is for small teams on phones. The API connects WhatsApp to software, so many agents, chatbots and CRMs can use one number.
Do I need approval to send messages?
Businesses need customer opt-in, and messages sent outside the customer service window must use templates approved by Meta.
Can a chatbot run on WhatsApp?
Yes. Chatbots and AI agents can reply on WhatsApp through the Business Platform, with handoff to human staff.
