How much does WhatsApp Business API cost? WhatsApp, which was initially just for personal chats, has become a powerful tool for business communication. There are two ways you can use it: through the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API.
WhatsApp changed how it charges businesses in a big way. Before, it was mainly about notifications, but in February 2023, WhatsApp switched to a pricing system based on conversations. And then, on June 1, 2023, they made even more changes to how they charge the businesses who want to send bulk messages on WhatsAppWhat are the latest change Azerbaijan Phone Numbers WhatsApp Business API pricing?The changes announced by Meta on June 1, 2023 are interesting. Instead of just saying who started the conversation (customer or business), WhatsApp now looks at why the conversation is happening: is it for practical stuff, confirming identity, providing a service, or marketing? This lets WhatsApp charge more accurately for the value each type of conversation brings.
They've moved away from how much local text messages cost and now focus on how valuable the conversation is. A marketing chat on WhatsApp can do a lot more for a business than a simple text message, as it can take customers on a whole journey, from seeing an ad to buying a product or service.
Who is affected by the latest changes in WhatsApp Business API pricing?
This pricing change affects both the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API. The app is free and works well for small businesses with just a few employees. But it's not great for bigger businesses or those who need to follow specific data laws.
The WhatsApp Business API is better for big businesses with a well-planned WhatsApp marketing strategy. It's more powerful and can handle lots of messages, especially with tools like chatbots and CRM systems. But it's not free like the WhatsApp Business app. WhatsApp charges businesses for using the WhatsApp Business API, based on the number and type of messages you send.
This new way of pricing shows how technology and business are always changing. In this blog, we'll explore these changes in detail, explaining why they happened and how you can deal with these new costs and efficiently interact with your customers.
WhatsApp Business API pricing: revised on June 1, 2023
Before we delve more into the details, here are the links to the official WhatsApp Business API price cards in popular currencies of the world:
Dollar (USA)
Dollar (Australia)
Euro
Pound sterling (UK)
Rupees (India)
A snapshot from the official WhatsApp Business API price card in USD (Source: Facebook Developers)
WhatsApp’s conversation-based pricing model explained
It's really important for businesses to know how WhatsApp charges for conversations. This helps them save money on communication and give customers great service. Let's look at the two main types of conversations and how they are charged for by WhatsApp:
User-initiated conversations (service conversations)
Picture this: A customer sends you a message to start a conversation. It's like the first step when someone talks to your business. The cool part is, you won't have to pay anything when they first message you. If you reply within 24 hours, you're all set. It's like a free 24-hour time period for chatting with your customers.
Remember, if you set up any automated responses, they count as answers and kick off a session, which could lead to charges. Oh, and here's a neat trick: While you're in that 24-hour conversation, you can send messages of the same type back to your customer without any extra cost. Just be cautious, sending a different type of message might start a new conversation and incur charges.
Service conversations initiated by users with some global brands who use WhatsApp Business API
Business-initiated conversations
Now, let's flip the script. In a business-initiated conversation, you're the one making the first move. There are three flavors to this: utility, authentication, and marketing conversations. Each comes with its own special features.
Utility conversations
Picture this as your go-to for transaction-related updates. You can keep customers in the loop about their purchases, shipping statuses, and billing statements. The cool thing is, even though it's not a promo, you still need a thumbs-up from WhatsApp before sending these messages.
Authentication conversations
This is your buddy for helping users sign up or log in. You can send them one-time codes or notifications to verify their accounts securely.
Marketing Conversations
Time to spread the word! Whether you're announcing new products, offering discounts, or giving warm welcomes, this is your stage. Just remember, if it's not a utility or authentication conversation, it's probably a marketing one.
WhatsApp Business API cost control tips
Becoming really good at managing WhatsApp Business API costs involves learning smart techniques to use the rules set by WhatsApp to your advantage. Let me break down how you can achieve this:
Be quick to respond
Use your time wisely by answering customer messages promptly, within 24 hours. This can save you money because
