What is WhatsApp Business API?
The WhatsApp Business API is Meta's interface that lets medium and large businesses send and receive WhatsApp messages at scale through software, rather than tapping on a phone. It powers automation, broadcasts, chatbots and a shared inbox.
Why WhatsApp Business API matters
It is the only official way to use WhatsApp for business at scale, with verified numbers, approved templates and high messaging limits, which the free WhatsApp Business app cannot offer.
Example
A retailer connects the API through kwiqreply to send order updates, run campaigns and let a whole team answer chats from one number.
Related terms
- WhatsApp Cloud API
- WhatsApp Business app
- WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)
- Full WhatsApp Business API glossary
See kwiqreply for yourself
kwiqreply is a WhatsApp Business API platform and CRM built on the official WhatsApp Business API, with a shared inbox, automation, AI agents and transparent pricing. Start free or book a walkthrough.
Start free trial Book a demoFrequently asked questions
Is the WhatsApp Business API free?
The API itself has no licence fee, but you pay per message by category and for any platform you use to access it.