What is WhatsApp Cloud API?

In the past, businesses had to rely on official WhatsApp BSPs (Business Service Providers) to gain access to the WhatsApp API. This was because Facebook didn’t offer direct access. However, with the introduction of the WhatsApp Cloud API, this barrier has been removed. Now, businesses can get their WhatsApp Business API accounts approved directly by Facebook.

The WhatsApp Cloud API is essentially the cloud-based version of WhatsApp Business API. It offers businesses and developers the flexibility to customize their WhatsApp experiences, enabling faster and easier customer engagement. The best part? Businesses can now receive direct approval from Facebook in no time. With Wetarseel, you can leverage this cloud API to seamlessly interact with customers, run campaigns, and automate your communication, all in one platform.

How does WhatsApp Cloud API work?

WhatsApp Cloud API opens up WhatsApp for all businesses across the Globe to customize it based on their experiences. With WhatsApp Cloud API, businesses can set up their WhatsApp Business Accounts in minutes with direct approval from Facebook.

This means that Facebook will bear all hosting, maintenance & other responsibilities that Business Service Providers solved till now. But, Facebook won’t provide a platform where you can use the WhatsApp Cloud API.

You can either build your own solution with your developer team or simply choose a WhatsApp Business API-based platform like Wetarseel to use WhatsApp Business API. Get started with Wetarseel  

Benefits of WhatsApp Cloud API 

The WhatsApp Cloud API offers:

• Lightining Fast approval for WhatsApp Business API directly from Facebook (in minutes) - Facebook will now provide direct access to the Business API to all businesses across the globe. Businesses only need to contact BSPs (Business Service Providers) for a platform to use WhatsApp Business API.
• You pay nothing - Facebook promises that businesses can get approved for WhatsApp Business API without paying anything. But, Facebook doesn't provide any platform to use the WhatsApp Business API. You can use the official WhatsApp Business API-based platform Wetarseel, to broadcast campaigns and solve for customer support under one platform.
• Get New Updates instantly - Get all new updates added to WhatsApp Business API, as now you have direct access to WhatsApp Business APIs via Cloud APIs.
  
  

What does this mean for Businesses already using WhatsApp Business API?

If your business already has access to the WhatsApp Business API, then the WhatsApp Cloud API doesn’t change much. While you can switch to the Cloud API, the functionality remains the same. If you’re using a platform like Wetarseel, you can continue using the same features without disruption.

The WhatsApp Cloud API simply makes it easier for new businesses to access the WhatsApp Business API, offering a more streamlined process for global businesses.

What does this mean for Businesses without access to the WhatsApp Business API?

Well, if you're new to WhatsApp Business API & are looking to get your account approved, there's good news.

You can get your account approved within minutes with WhatsApp Cloud API for Free!

Earlier, to apply for WhatsApp Business API, you needed an approved Facebook Business Manager Account. Well, now you can apply & get approval for the WhatsApp API without the FB Business Manager Account approval.

But, you'd have limited access to the WhatsApp API without Facebook Business Verification so we recommend that you get your Facebook Business Manager verified alongside.

Will I get WhatsApp Business API for Free?
Yes, with the WhatsApp Cloud API, you can access the WhatsApp Business API for free directly from Facebook. However, while the API is free, you’ll still need a platform to manage communications with your customers. Wetarseel offers an easy-to-use platform that integrates seamlessly with the WhatsApp Cloud API, allowing businesses to leverage its full potential.

Limitations of WhatsApp Cloud API

There's only one Limitation that you might face while using WhatsApp Cloud API. You can't use the same WhatsApp number for on-premise WhatsApp Business API & cloud WhatsApp API.

Though, you can transfer your phone number from on-premise WhatsApp Business API to WhatsApp Cloud API.

You can either use a phone number with an on-premise WhatsApp API or with the Cloud WhatsApp API.