In reality, despite its popularity, WhatsApp was primarily created to ensure private, one-on-one communication. Of course, a professional version called WhatsApp Business also exists. However, to achieve compelling results in communication and marketing, the ideal choice is WhatsApp API.

Want to learn more about this software? You’ve come to the right place. Octopush tells you everything you need to know.

What exactly is WhatsApp API?

API stands for Application Programming Interface. It is software that allows different applications to connect with one another. By definition, WhatsApp API is software that enables businesses to integrate WhatsApp with other systems. For example, this messaging programming interface is compatible with systems such as a company's CRM or marketing software (online stores, blogs, digital platforms, etc.).

While many consider WhatsApp Business to be the professional version of WhatsApp, the existence of WhatsApp API should not be overlooked. In fact, rather than being a simple messaging system, WhatsApp API serves as a full-fledged communication channel for large companies. In a professional context, this API is most often used to integrate with a CRM for customer support, to send informational campaigns, or to send transactional messages.

To access this tool, you must go through a verification process with Facebook. Once this "authorization" is obtained, you simply need to go through an expert third-party API provider, such as Octopush.

What is the difference between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp API?

Many professionals still struggle to truly distinguish between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp API. However, these are two very distinct solutions that you should understand before deciding which one to choose.

In fact, WhatsApp is an application available in three different versions: WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, and WhatsApp API.

• WhatsApp: WhatsApp is certainly the most well-known version, as it is the one generally used by individuals. It is primarily popular due to its accessibility and ease of use. Through this chat platform, it is possible to communicate with contacts and create groups.
• WhatsApp Business: WhatsApp Business is considered the professional version of WhatsApp, which can be used with a virtual number or not. With the help of this application, a business can create an account WhatsApp Business. This account allows them to create a business profile that provides essential information to their contacts: company name, contact details, address, opening hours, etc. Small and medium-sized businesses most often use this solution to make it much easier for their customers to get in touch.
• WhatsApp API: This latter solution is primarily reserved for large companies. As mentioned earlier, WhatsApp API is not an application, but rather software. Integrating it into applications allows for the implementation of advanced features such as a CRM or mass message automation.

For your business, you therefore have the choice between WhatsApp Business and WhatsApp API. To make the right choice, we suggest you base your decision on your goals, as WhatsApp API is much more expensive than WhatsApp Business.

What are the advantages of WhatsApp API?

The question is: if WhatsApp API costs more, why use it? Well, as you might suspect, this solution is much more advantageous. In reality, there is no shortage of uses for WhatsApp API.

Indeed, this tool allows you to:

Automate your message sending

By integrating WhatsApp API into your software, you gain the ability to schedule and automate certain messages. This helps you be much more present for your customers and easily build a connection with them. During your closing hours, for example, when no one is there to answer customers, WhatsApp API can respond for you via a personalized automated message. So, there is no need tosend SMS, you have WhatsApp to help you!

Schedule messages to be sent at a specific time

Sending mass messages within a company can be extremely beneficial. However, doing everything through a web platform can present some problems, particularly in terms of time and convenience. With WhatsApp API, however, nothing is simpler than sending mass messages for marketing campaigns.

Get closer to your customers and build loyalty

This feature of WhatsApp API also helps you get even closer to your customers and therefore build their loyalty. Indeed, on special occasions, sending messages can be a way to build rapport, especially to inform them about an event, but also to encourage them to participate and potentially receive prizes.

In short, as you can see,WhatsApp API integration can be extremely beneficial for your business. Please don't hesitate to contact us to handle the integration for your platforms. At Octopush, we are committed to your satisfaction through our high-quality services.