WhatsApp is already a popular choice among 2 billion people, and so is WhatsApp API Integration in the business world.

WhatsApp is currently trusted by 50 million businesses. Companies like Decathlon, Cheel, Adidas, Yoox, and Amazon have achieved significant results via WhatsApp Integration. WhatsApp API, with its comprehensive capability, is quickly displacing traditional ways of engagement while also adding a unique touch to marketing campaigns. 

Despite the growing importance of WhatsApp API integration, the vagueness persists concerning the process of obtaining WhatsApp API. And if you are here with the same question, read on to learn more about WhatsApp Business API, its features, and the process of WhatsApp Business API integration.

What exactly is WhatsApp API?

WhatsApp API is an application program interface (API) specifically tailored to meet the demands of medium to large businesses by providing more flexibility & functionality than the WhatsApp Business app.

Launched in 2018 by Meta, WhatsApp API is a powerful tool as it leverages WhatsApp's greater global reach and capacity to deliver unlimited messaging scale businesses' marketing and sales efforts rewarding higher efficiency and improved customer engagement.

With multiple log-ins, WhatsApp API allows sending 1,00,000 messages to new users regularly.  And, given that the WhatsApp API message open rate is 99%, the impact you can have with your messages can be substantial. 

Every month, up to 40 million WhatsApp users browse the business catalogs to find products & services, and 92% of customers prefer to chat over other types of customer support. As a result, e-commerce businesses' use of WhatsApp has surged by 352%.

Example: 

Modanisa, a leading online fashion retailer, developed two chatbots through the WhatsApp API Integration,  one for improved customer service and the other focused on e-commerce. With WhatsApp API Integration, this company handled nearly 70% of customer inquiries resolved without a need to go to live support and increased its sales in less than two years.

Here are some of the key features of the WhatsApp Business API

The following key features of WhatsApp Business API enable businesses to automate and streamline communication & workflow while saving time and resources-

• Automated Messages & Quick Replies: The WhatsApp Business API allows businesses to send automated messages to customers and connect with them in real-time through live chatbots, making managing a high volume of communications simpler.

• Conversation Management: The WhatsApp Business API allows multiple logins & provides tools for managing customer conversations, including the ability to label and organize communications, assign conversations to team members, and track the status of interactions.

• Secure Messaging: The WhatsApp Business API uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that all messages sent through the platform are secure.

• Integration with Other Systems: The WhatsApp Business API can be integrated with other systems, such as CRM systems and e-commerce platforms, allowing businesses to manage all customer communications in one place.

• Insights and Analytics: The WhatsApp Business API provides businesses with insights into their messaging performance and the effectiveness of their communication with customers.

WhatsApp API Integration, unlike other versions of WhatsApp, is not free. For those interested in WhatsApp Business API price, Meta hosts the pages distinctly for the pricing information & it's working. 

Eligibility requirements for WhatsApp Business API

To be eligible for WhatsApp API Integration, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• You must be a business with a presence in one of the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Spain, United Kingdom, or the United States.

• Your company must be in good standing and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

• You must be able to provide proof of your business's physical address, phone number, and website.

• You must have a valid email address and phone number to use the WhatsApp Business API.

• You must also follow all applicable laws and regulations regarding data privacy and security.

For WhatsApp API Integration, the following Whatsapp API documentation is required:

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Whatsapp Business App Vs. Whatsapp Business API  What are the Differences? 

WhatsApp Business is a free messaging app for small businesses that allows them to communicate with their customers. WhatsApp Business is available for download as a separate app from the regular WhatsApp app that is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It has the following features:

• Broadcast: Allows businesses to send broadcasts to 256 people, i.e., to only saved contacts. 

• Rich Multimedia: Allows businesses to send voice & video calls for engagement. 

• Quick replies: Businesses may save and re-engage with common messages, making it easier to react to frequently asked questions.

• Automated greetings: Allows businesses to set up automated greetings for new chats and away messages.

• Catalogs: Allows businesses to showcase their products and services via catalogs that customers can browse through on WhatsApp.

• No Verified Green Tick- With WhatsApp Business, you can not achieve WhatsApp Business Verification. 

The WhatsApp Business API is a paid service for medium to large businesses that allows them to send and receive messages at scale with their consumers. Businesses will gain the following benefits from WhatsApp API integration:

• Broadcast: The broadcasting limit under WhatsApp API is 1,00,000 users per day.

• Customized templates: Allows businesses to send messages with customized templates, such as order confirmations or shipping notifications.

• Chatbots: Allows businesses to handle customer inquiries through live chatbots, which can answer questions and provide information 24/7.

• Session Messages: Responding to consumer queries on WhatsApp API is limited to 24 hours, and the time is calculated from the most recent message received by the customer.

• Message Scheduling: Allows businesses to schedule messages for later delivery.

• Verified Green Tick- With WhatsApp Business API, you get WhatsApp Business Verification that adds authority & credibility. 

Benefits of Whatsapp Business API over Whats app business app

The WhatsApp Business API allows businesses to integrate WhatsApp messaging directly into their own systems, such as CRM or e-commerce platforms. This can allow for the automation of certain tasks, such as sending order confirmations or handling customer service inquiries.

Additionally, the WhatsApp Business API allows for more advanced messaging capabilities, such as the ability to send messages to a large number of users at once. The API also provides detailed metrics and analytics on message delivery, engagement, and performance.

 In conclusion, the WhatsApp Business API is more dynamic and feature-rich than WhatsApp Business and streamlines marketing campaigns & customer support workflows at scale.

Is WhatsApp API efficient for your business?

WhatsApp API has extensive functionality, as well as the privilege of WhatsApp reach and popularity, but WhatsApp API and your efforts can be more effective with an engagement platform.

WhatsApp API Integration with Conversational Commerce Platforms like Donut.cx supports your team with a powerful multi-agent & multichannel inbox that provides automated customer support 24/7 and single-view operations management.

Along with improved customer support, Donut.cx improves WhatsApp Business API efficiency in sales and marketing initiatives. Donut.cx allows you to chat with every new and old lead across channels with appealing broadcasts & proactive engagement powered via advanced analytics.

Incorporating WhatsApp API into your conversational commerce platform can help you generate more sales, personalize marketing campaigns, and improve customer services.

What is the process of getting WhatsApp API?

Obtaining the WhatsApp Business API entails setting up a WhatsApp Business account, requesting access to the API, going through the review and approval process, setting up your API client, and testing and going live.

It’s too much to process, Right? Let us take one step at a time!

Because WhatsApp API Integration is not the same as WhatsApp Integration, it cannot be installed or purchased directly from Meta and needs to be integrated directly into business software. Business Service Providers (BSP) & Independent Software Vendors (ISV) give access to the WhatsApp Business API. 

Recently, Meta has made several modifications to make the process of getting WhatsApp API more convenient. Unlike before, Facebook Business Verification is no longer necessary for every business. So is the WhatsApp Policy Compliance Tick, triggered automatically in the background following the sign-up procedure.

Display Name Review is now initiated only after Facebook Business Verification, and the whole process of getting a WhatsApp API has become more convenient post these changes. 

Map to get WhatsApp API

Although obtaining WhatsApp Business API is technically complex, it is easier to execute than it appears. Here is a detailed overview of getting WhatsApp API to help you through.

1. How to Get WhatsApp Business API Account: On-Premises API

On-Premise API is the method of WhatsApp API Integration that has existed ever since the WhatsApp API. To achieve the WhatsApp API integration via the On-Premises method, one has to install the WhatsApp Business API Client, register your phone number, and run a test to confirm it's working.

And, before you begin the real process, you will require-

• A Facebook Business Manager account

• A verified business

• A WhatsApp business account

• A Line of Credit for your WhatsApp business account

Once you've met the prerequisites,  you'll need to do the following steps to get a WhatsApp API Integration for On-Premises API:

Step 1. Install the WhatsApp Business API Client

Install the WhatsApp Business API Client, and at its core, it is based on Docker. Except for Windows, the WhatsApp Business API client will work on any internet-connected machine that can run Docker for Linux.

Once the WhatsApp Business API client is operational, you can make modifications via "Application Settings."

Step 2. Start Using the Client

As soon as the WhatsApp Business API is ready, you must register your phone number with an API call. Next, you will need to send your WhatsApp account a message from the test phone number to enable the Customer Service window, which allows you to send any type of message within the 24-hour window.

Although On-Premise is one of the tested methods to achieve WhatsApp API Integration, it is relatively easy for non-developers.

As we'll explain next, there are other easy ways to get WhatsApp API Integration. 

Click here to know all the FAQs regarding On-Premises Method.

2. How to Get WhatsApp Business API Account: With the Sign-up method

BSP gets directly involved in the Sign-up method in letting you achieve WhatsApp API Integration. The sign-up method shortens the process of obtaining API, but there are two ways to obtain WhatsApp API using the sign-up technique, i.e., by

• Classic Sign-up Method
• Embedded Sign-up Method

Classic Sign-up Method-

The Classic Sign-up method is a manual application process, and the process entails several back & forth between a firm & a BSP that led to prolonged waiting times. 

The classic sign-up method for getting a WhatsApp Business API account involves the following steps:

• Step 1:  Check if your business is eligible for the WhatsApp Business API by visiting the WhatsApp Business website and filling out the form to request access.

• Step 2: If your business is approved, you will receive an email from WhatsApp with a link to the classic sign-up form.

• Step 3: Fill out the classic sign-up form with your business information and details about your intended use of the WhatsApp Business API.

• Step 4:  After you submit the form, WhatsApp will review your application and may contact you for additional information or to schedule a call to discuss your business needs.

• Step 5: If your application is approved, you will receive a set of API credentials that you can use to access the API and start integrating it into your business systems.

Remember that the classic sign-up method is currently unavailable to all businesses. 

https://docs.360dialog.com/docs/360-partner-hub/submission-process

Embedded Sign-up

In the embedded sign-up method, businesses can complete the WhatsApp API integration process directly by filling out a form on the BSP’s website. Embedded sign-up is a self-service process that helps businesses connect directly to WhatsApp from your website. It saves onboarding time and eliminates the need for a BSP agent.

The steps are-

• Step 1: Sign in with Facebook

• Step 2: Create or Select a Facebook Business Account

• Step 3: Create or Select a WhatsApp Business Account

• Step 4: Verify the Business Phone Number

• Step 5: Complete the embedded sign-up pop-ups.

The onboarding process is complete. 

The later steps to set up WhatsApp API Integration-

• Step 1: Log in to your Facebook Account
• Step 2: Retrieve WhatsApp Business Account ID
• Step 3: Add System Users to the WhatsApp  Business Account 
• Step 4: Register the WhatsApp Business Phone Number

Click here to know all the FAQs regarding the Embedded Sign-Up method. 

3. How to Get WhatsApp Business API Account: Cloud

WhatsApp Cloud API was recently launched in 2022, allowing businesses to apply directly via Meta. The Cloud API supports up to 80 messages per second which are protected by Signal protocol encryption that secures messages before they leave the device.

Key Difference between On-Premises & Cloud:

To get WhatsApp Cloud API, complete the following steps: 

• Step 1: Set up a Meta Developer Account
• Step 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication that helps protect your Facebook account and password.
• Step 3: Create a Meta App and integrate it with your business Manager Account
• Step 4: Create or Select a WhatsApp Business Account.
• Step 5: Create & Integrate your Business Phone Number with your WhatsApp Business Account. 
• Step 6: Run a test campaign with the recipients' phone numbers.

Click here to learn all the FAQs regarding WhatsApp Cloud API.

How to Get WhatsApp Business API Account easily: Donut.cx

Donut.cx provides access to the advanced capabilities of the WhatsApp API, as explained above. Connecting your Donut account to WhatsApp is a concise task that also enables you easy access to the WhatsApp API.

To get WhatsApp API, the prerequisite requirements are-

• Facebook Manager Account
• A phone number
• Company’s Legal address & Business Details

The procedure for obtaining the WhatsApp API and integrating it with Donut.cx is as follows-

• Step 1: Open “Integration” on the Setting menu and click WhatsApp
  

• Step 2: Make sure that you meet all the prerequisite requirements to connect with the WhatsApp Business API. 

• Step 3: You will be directed to Facebook to connect your Facebook Business Manager account.

• Step 4: After completing all the requirements on Facebook Business Manager, copy the number you will use, select WhatsApp or SMS and click " Verify Code".

• Step 5: After receiving the notification code, input it and click “Verify”.

• Step 6: Now your WhatsApp is connected with Facebook Business Manager! Complete your WhatsApp Business Profile and click “Save”

•  Step 7: You have successfully connected your Donut with WhatsApp!

Now you can start interacting with your WhatsApp customers effectively with Donut.cx Chat Widget.

Are there any drawbacks to using the WhatsApp API?

Yes, there are some drawbacks to using the WhatsApp Business API.

1. The API has strict usage guidelines and businesses must comply with WhatsApp's terms of service to use the API. This may require additional resources for compliance and monitoring.

2. The API is currently only available for businesses and not for individuals or non-profit organizations. The API requires a business to have a physical location, a customer service phone number, and WhatsApp approval which can be limiting for some businesses.

3. The WhatsApp Business API is not free to use, and there may be additional costs associated with using certain features or sending large numbers of messages.

4. Setting up and configuring the WhatsApp Business API can be complex, and may require technical expertise.

5. WhatsApp API has strict policies in place to prevent spam and fraudulent messages from being sent to users. Your message can be blocked if it is flagged as spam or if it does not comply with WhatsApp's policies.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp web API is significant in providing advanced customer support and operational efficiency via its enhanced features and global WhatsApp acceptance. 

While WhatsApp API Integration is not as basic as expected, it is also not as complicated. There are a few ways to get WhatsApp API, but the wise choose the best route that offers maximum convenience and simple steps.

As WhatsApp continues to evolve and offer new features, businesses should explore the potential benefits that WhatsApp Integration will bring to their operations.

Donut.cx effectively enhances WhatsApp API usability and enables you to acquire WhatsApp API access with minimal effort. To get things started,

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