All you need to know about Whatsapp Business API

WhatsApp to finally monetize as today it announced the launch of the Whatsapp Business API which will charge businesses for sending customer service and marketing related messages.

As per its official blog, the Facebook acquired company is expanding it’s support for businesses that need more powerful tools to communicate with their customers.

Here's how people can connect with a business:

• Request helpful information: When you need a shipping confirmation or boarding pass, you can give your mobile number to a business on their website, on their app, or in their store to send you information on WhatsApp.
• Start a conversation: You may see a click-to-chat button on a website or Facebook ad to quickly message a business.
• Get support: Some businesses may provide real-time support on WhatsApp to answer questions about their products or help you resolve an issue.

With this approach, you will continue to have full control over the messages you receive. Businesses will pay to send certain messages so they are selective and your chats don't get cluttered. In addition, messages will remain end-to-end encrypted and you can block any business with the tap of a button.

The new Business API app will let businesses respond to messages from users for free for up to 24 hours, but will charge them a fixed rate by country per message sent after that, reports TechCrunch. Each message is reportedly going to cost 0.5 cents to 9 cents which is approximately 34 paise to Rs 6 and will vary for different countries.