Keep Using the WhatsApp Business App After Moving to the API
You no longer have to choose between the WhatsApp Business App and the API. With coexistence, your existing number works in both. Here is what it means and how to set it up in Zapwa.
For years, moving a number to the WhatsApp Business API meant deleting it from the WhatsApp Business App. Many businesses held back because their customers, chat history and habits were all on that one phone.
Meta's coexistence onboarding changes that. You can connect the number you already use on the WhatsApp Business App to Zapwa and keep using the app on your phone at the same time.
Two ways to connect a number in Zapwa
When you connect WhatsApp in Zapwa you choose one of two options.
Option 1: Your WhatsApp Business App number (coexistence)
- No new number needed
- Keep chatting from the WhatsApp Business App on your phone
- Use Zapwa for campaigns, the shared team inbox, automation and integrations
- Requires the number to be on the latest version of the WhatsApp Business App, and access to that phone to confirm the connection
Option 2: A new number (API only)
- A fresh number that is not registered on WhatsApp Personal or Business
- Must be able to receive an OTP by SMS or call
- Fully API based: you manage everything inside Zapwa, and the number cannot be used in the WhatsApp apps
Which option should you pick?
Choose coexistence if your customers already know your WhatsApp number and you want to keep your phone workflow while adding campaigns and a team inbox.
Choose a new number if you are starting fresh, want a dedicated support or marketing line, or plan to run everything through your team in Zapwa.
How to connect with coexistence
- Update the WhatsApp Business App on your phone to the latest version.
- In Zapwa, click Connect WhatsApp and choose WA Business App Number.
- Follow Meta's secure signup window and log in with Facebook.
- Confirm the connection on your phone when WhatsApp asks.
- Done. Your number now works in both the app and Zapwa.
Things to know
- Your GST certificate or an active business website helps with Meta Business Verification, which unlocks higher messaging limits.
- Messages sent from Zapwa through the API are billed per Meta's pricing; chats you handle in the app on your phone work as they always have.
Connect your number today: start free with Zapwa.
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