What is the main difference between the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API (Platform)?

The app is a free, mobile-first tool designed for solo owners or small teams with low chat volume, limited to a single device (plus 4 linked devices) and basic automation. The API (Platform) is a paid, scalable software solution designed for medium-to-large businesses. It has no user interface and must be integrated via a Business Solution Provider (BSP) or a CRM to enable multi-agent access, advanced automation (chatbots), and CRM integration.

When is the "exact time" to switch from the WhatsApp Business App to the API?

You should switch when you hit any of these three critical limits: Volume/Capacity: You handle more than 50 unique customer chats per day or need more than two people to manage the inbox. Team Size: You need 3 or more agents to manage chats collaboratively from a shared inbox. Integration: You need to automatically sync WhatsApp data with your CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) or other business systems.

Is the WhatsApp Business API free? How much does it cost?

No, the API is not entirely free. The cost has three components: Platform/BSP Fee: A monthly fee charged by your Business Solution Provider (BSP) for access to the shared inbox, chatbot tools, and CRM integration.Meta Template Fees: Meta charges a per-message fee for all business-initiated template messages (Marketing, Utility, Authentication).Service Conversations are Free: All customer-initiated messages and your replies within the 24-hour service window are generally free under the new 2025 pricing model.

Can I use the WhatsApp Business API on multiple devices or with multiple agents?

Yes, this is the primary benefit. The API is accessed through a shared team inbox (provided by your BSP), which supports an unlimited number of agents working collaboratively from their web dashboards or integrated CRM, all using the same business number.

What happens to my old chat history and contacts when I switch to the API?

When migrating your phone number from the App to the API, you will generally lose your existing chat history, as the API does not support importing old conversations. However, your contacts remain safe and can be imported into your new API-connected system (like a CRM/BSP inbox).

Can I get the blue tick (verified badge) using the WhatsApp Business app?

No. Eligibility for the Official Business Account (Green/Blue Tick) is only available to businesses using the WhatsApp Business API (Platform) that meet Meta's strict verification and notability criteria.

Does the WhatsApp Business API allow for automated chatbots?

Yes. Unlike the App's basic auto-replies, the API enables the development and integration of AI-powered chatbots for advanced functions like 24/7 instant support, lead qualification, and complex routing, handling up to 80% of common queries.

What is the most important change in the 2025 WhatsApp API pricing model?

The most critical change is the shift to a per-message delivered model (instead of per 24-hour conversation charge) for business-initiated templates. More importantly, it makes all user-initiated (service) conversations and related utility templates completely FREE to strongly prioritize customer support.

What are the three types of template messages, and why do I need them?

Template Messages are pre-approved by Meta and are required to start a conversation (business-initiated) or reply after the 24-hour service window closes. They are categorized as: Marketing: Promotional content (charged the highest rate). Utility: Customer-helpful information like order confirmations or updates (free if sent within the 24-hour window). Authentication: For security, like One-Time Passcodes (OTPs).

WhatsApp Business App vs. WhatsApp Business API

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