When using WhatsApp for business, the two alternatives are: Whatsapp Apps and WhatsApp Business API. Knowing the differences between the two can assist you decide which one to select depending on your business’s demands and size. So, let’s dig in.
WhatsApp Apps (WhatsApp Business App & WhatsApp App)
WhatsApp Apps are developed for small businesses that don’t need advanced features. The WhatsApp Business App and standard WhatsApp App are ideal for small businesses, solopreneurs, and personal use.
WhatsApp Business API
For medium to large-scale enterprises with a need for customized communications, increased automation, and much stronger features, there’s the WhatsApp Business API.
With the WhatsApp Business API, companies can:
- Set up automated responses using chatbots.
- Use many agents to respond to queries from the same number.
- Automate reminders for payments, notification of deliveries, and billing information.
- Broadcast thousands of messages to unlimited users directly on WhatsApp.
In summary, WhatsApp Business API is for any organization that needs automation and customer support at scale.
How to get WhatsApp Business API?
You can obtain WhatsApp Business API quite simply but the process requires a few key steps. First and foremost, be aware that the WhatsApp Business API is a separate application, hence it needs to be reviewed and approved by WhatsApp.
You need to have a Facebook Business Manager business.faceboook.com verified and then you can apply for the WhatsApp Business API.
Here’s what you need to apply for the WhatsApp Business API with Wetarseel:
- A Mobile NumberTo use the WhatsApp Business API, you must use a mobile number that does not have WhatsApp downloaded, or if it is downloaded, all associated accounts must be removed first. A phone number can’t be used for the WhatsApp Apps and the WhatsApp Business API at the same time. So if you want to stick with that old number, make sure to get rid of your WhatsApp Account first.
- Verified Facebook Business Manager IDYou can request access to the WhatsApp Business API without having your Facebook Business Manager verified, but it will be limited. Having a Facebook Business Manager verification lets you access all the features on the WhatsApp Business API without issue. So why suffer with limited access?
- A Business Website: The footer of your website must have your official business name.
- Credit/Debit Card: To ensure that your setup is smooth when applying for the WhatsApp Business API with Wetarseel, make sure you have a credit or debit card.
Click here to get started, and the Wetarseel team will assist you through the application process.
Can WhatsApp Business API and App be on the same phone number?
No, WhatsApp Business API and WhatsApp Apps cannot be used with one shared phone number. Just as one cannot register a number for both WhatsApp App and WhatsApp Business App, the same goes for this.
How to make the transition from WhatsApp App to WhatsApp Business API and vice versa?
If you need to upgrade your phone number to use the WhatsApp Business API, it’s important to note that the number cannot be active on any WhatsApp Apps (either WhatsApp App or WhatsApp Business App).
To transition:
- If the number is registered on WhatsApp App, you’ll need to delete the WhatsApp account before applying for the WhatsApp Business API.
- Once the number is upgraded to the WhatsApp Business API, it cannot be downgraded back to WhatsApp Apps.
Here is How you can Delete your WhatsApp Business App before Applying for the API:
- Open WhatsApp
- Tap More Options (three dots) > Settings > Account > Delete My Account
- Enter your phone number in full international format and tap DELETE MY ACCOUNT
- Select a reason for why you’re deleting your account in the dropdown
- Tap DELETE MY ACCOUNT
Once your account is deleted, you can proceed with applying for the WhatsApp Business API.
