Business API vs. Business App
WhatsApp for Business has a Business App and a Business API that allows companies to chat with their customers. But there are some key differences that the make WhatsApp Business app or WhatsApp Business API better for different types of businesses.
Business App
The WhatsApp Business app is an app that can be installed on a single phone. It's very similar to the original WhatsApp app except you're chatting with people as a business instead of your personal account. This app is suited to small businesses who have a single person that manages customer communication, it should not be used by businesses who have customer service teams.
- WhatsApp Business App can be installed on a single phone
- It is free to download
- Has basic auto response and quick reply features
- Have 1-to-1 conversations with customers
- Allows you to manage your business profile on WhatsApp
- Allows you to manage your product catalogue on WhatsApp
- It does not 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.
Business API
The WhatsApp Businesses API is for larger businesses that want to use more powerful software applications to communicate with their customers. Some examples of this could include:
- Using customer service software on WhatsApp
- Using live chat software on WhatsApp
- Creating chatbots on WhatsApp
- Sending order notifications and updates from your business software
- Generating real-time quotes
- Collecting customer information to save into your CRM
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.