More buyers in Bangladesh now ask “WhatsApp e order kora jabe?”. The WhatsApp Business app works for one phone. Once you want a team inbox, a chatbot or an AI agent, you need the WhatsApp Business API. Here is what it is, what it costs and how to connect it.
1What is the WhatsApp Business API?
It is Meta's official way for a business to send and receive WhatsApp messages from software such as a shared inbox, a chatbot or an AI agent. Meta calls it the WhatsApp Business Platform, and most businesses use it through the Cloud API that Meta hosts. You don't download it; you connect your number through a provider such as OmniConva.
2WhatsApp Business app vs API
| Business app | Business API | |
|---|---|---|
| Who replies | You, on your phone and linked devices | Your team or an AI, from software |
| Automation | Greeting, away message, quick replies | Chatbots, AI agents, store integrations |
| Messaging after 24 hours | Any message | Only Meta-approved templates |
| Cost | Free | Provider plan, plus Meta's charges for some messages (included in OmniConva plans) |
3Is the WhatsApp Business API free?
Two costs can apply: your provider's plan, and Meta's own charges for some messages. Meta prices by message type (such as marketing, utility, authentication and service) and by the customer's country, and it has changed these rules more than once since 2023, so always check Meta's current rate card.
4The 24-hour rule
When a customer messages you, you can reply with normal messages for 24 hours. After that, you can only restart the chat with a message template that Meta has approved, such as an order update or an offer.
5Official API vs QR-code tools
Some tools connect by having you scan a QR code, the same way WhatsApp Web does. That adds the tool as a linked device on your phone's account; it is not the Business API. WhatsApp's terms don't allow automated or bulk messaging through unofficial means, and numbers used that way can be restricted. For a number your business depends on, use the official API.
6Can I keep using the WhatsApp Business app?
Yes. Meta now lets you connect a number that is already on the WhatsApp Business app and keep using the app on your phone, with chats synced between the two. OmniConva supports this, so you don't need a new number. Your contacts and the last 180 days of chats are imported.
7What you need before you start
- A phone number you control. Either the number already on your WhatsApp Business app (you can keep the app), or a number that isn't on WhatsApp at all and can receive an SMS or a call for the verification code.
- A Facebook account that can manage your business on Meta. Meta's setup window creates or picks your business portfolio and WhatsApp Business account; you don't need to set them up in advance.
- A display name that matches your business. Customers see it on every message, and Meta reviews it. Until it is approved you can receive messages but not send them.
- No trade licence or documents to start. Meta's business verification is optional at first; it is one of the ways to raise how many new customers you can message a day.
8How to connect WhatsApp to OmniConva
- In Settings › Connection, press Connect on the WhatsApp row.
- Choose I already use the WhatsApp Business app to keep the app on your phone, or Set up a brand new number for a number that isn't on WhatsApp.
- Press Open WhatsApp setup and finish the steps in Meta's window. With the business app, choose share chat history when asked.
- When you see WhatsApp connected. you're done.
- Create message templates for chats older than 24 hours.
Questions people ask
Is the WhatsApp Business API free?
Not entirely. Your provider charges for its plan, and Meta charges for some message types. With OmniConva, Meta's charges are included in your plan.
Can I use my existing number?
Yes. You can connect the number you already use on the WhatsApp Business app and keep the app.
Do I need to verify my business?
You can start without it. Meta may ask you to verify your business to raise your messaging limits or use some features.
Can the AI take orders on WhatsApp?
Yes. OmniConva answers from your catalog in Bangla, Banglish or English and writes the order in the chat, the same as on Facebook and Instagram.