WhatsApp Business API vs. WhatsApp Business App
What’s the deal?
Both versions of WhatsApp Business allow companies to chat with customers. But there are key differences that the make WhatsApp Business app or WhatsApp Business API better for different features.
WhatsApp Business App
The WhatsApp Business app allows one conversation at a time, just like the peer-to-peer version of WhatsApp. This version isn’t meant to be used for businesses to engage customers at scale.
✅ Enables basic auto response and quick reply features
✅ Facilitates 1-to-1 conversations
✅ Allows product catalogues
✅ Any business owner can download and use the app on their own mobile phone without assistance from a technical team
✅ The WhatsApp Business App is free
❌ Doesn’t allow 3rd party app or software integrations
If you’re a small business owner engaging one or two customers at a time, then the WhatsApp Business App is perfect for your business.
WhatsApp Business API
Businesses that engage lots of customers at the same time should be using the WhatsApp Business API.
This version of WhatsApp Business requires an official API provider to grant your business access to the API.
✅ Enables advanced chatbots
✅ Capable of unlimited 3rd party integrations
✅ Allows large businesses to engage with customers at scale
✅ Allows product catalogues
✅ Enables WhatsApp Template Messages
🧑💻 Requires an official solutions provider
🤑 Pricing varies depending on the solution provider and WhatsApp Conversation-based pricing
🚦 Requires official Facebook Business verification
This version of WhatsApp Business requires an official API provider to grant your business access to the API.
Industries allowed to use WhatsApp Business
Not every business is allowed to use the WhatsApp Business API. Companies in the gambling, pharmaceutical, politics, and alcohol industries are banned from selling on WhatsApp.
Companies in these industries that want to support customers must meet strict policies.
Cue provides WhatsApp Business API integration, chatbots, and Live Chat solutions.
