Message types
All message types, except for template messages, can only be sent to a WhatsApp user when a 24-hour customer service window is open between you and the user. Template messages can be sent to a WhatsApp user at any time, as long as the user has opted-in to receive messages from you.
See our Developer Documentation for details about using our APIs.
Message types
The WhatsApp Business API can be used to send the following types of messages (listed alphabetically):
Audio messages
Display an audio icon and a link to an audio file. The audio file is downloaded and played when a customer taps the icon.
Authentication message
A highly structured template that allows One Time Pins to be delivered via the WhatsApp channel.
Commerce messages
Commerce messages are interactive messages used in conjunction with a product catalog. Catalog messages are free-form messages that allow you to showcase your product catalog entirely within WhatsApp.
Contacts messages
Send rich contact information such as names, phone numbers, physical addresses, and email addresses directly to customers.
Document messages
Display a document icon, linked to a document that a customer can tap to download.
Image messages
Display a single image and an optional caption.
Interactive CTA URL button messages
Map any URL to a button, so you don't have to include raw URLs in the message body.
Interactive list messages
Present customers with a list of options to choose from.
Interactive location request messages
Display body text and a Send location button. When a customer taps the button, a location-sharing screen appears that they can use to share their location.
Interactive reply buttons messages
Send up to three predefined replies for customers to choose from.
Location messages
Send a location's latitude and longitude coordinates to a customer. Tapping the map opens the location in the mobile phone's map app.
Text messages
Messages containing only a text body and an optional link preview.
Template messages
Send marketing and utility templates to customers. Unlike all other message types, template messages do not require a 24-hour customer service window to be open between you and the customer before the message can be sent.
Video messages
Display a thumbnail preview of a video image with an optional caption. When your customer taps the preview, it loads the video and plays it.
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