Glossary / WhatsApp Business API
WhatsApp Business API
The WhatsApp Business API (now Meta's Cloud API) is the official programmatic interface that lets businesses send and receive WhatsApp messages at scale, send bulk campaigns via approved templates, and build AI agents or chatbots — distinct from the free WhatsApp Business app which is single-user only.
Full definition
The WhatsApp Business API is Meta's enterprise-grade API for businesses that need high-volume, multi-agent, or automated messaging. It supports two message types: session messages (free, within a 24-hour customer reply window) and template messages (pre-approved by Meta, required to initiate new conversations). Access is only available through Meta Business Partners like NimbleBiz.ai, which provide the onboarding, phone-number verification, and template approval workflow. The API enables bulk marketing campaigns, AI chatbots, customer support at scale, and CRM integrations — all on a verified green-tick business profile.
Key facts
- Official Meta API — the only compliant way to send bulk WhatsApp messages
- Two message types: session (free, 24h window) and template (pre-approved)
- Requires a Meta Business Partner like NimbleBiz for onboarding
- Supports verified green-tick business profiles
- Pricing is per-conversation, set by Meta and varies by country
Related terms
WhatsApp bulk campaigns are mass marketing messages sent via pre-approved template messages on the official WhatsApp Business API — used for promotions, abandoned-cart recovery, order updates, and re-engagement, with full delivery and read analytics.
ReadAn AI sales agent is software that autonomously engages prospects in conversation — qualifying leads, answering questions, and closing or booking meetings — across WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and website chat, 24/7, without a human rep.
ReadConversational commerce is the practice of driving marketing, sales, and customer support through messaging channels — WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and chat — rather than traditional websites, email, or phone calls. In India, SEA, and MENA it's often the primary way customers buy.
ReadSee whatsapp business api in production
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