WhatsApp Business (Official API)
- How to connect WhatsApp Business using the official Meta API
- What prerequisites you need before starting
- When to choose the official API over QR code or Evolution API options
The WhatsApp Business API (labeled WhatsApp API (Oficial) in AutoTalk) is the official, Meta-supported way to connect a WhatsApp Business number to AutoTalk. It provides reliable, high-volume message delivery, supports pre-approved message templates, and does not require your phone to stay online.
When to use this option
Choose the official WhatsApp Business API when:
- You need to send message templates (notifications, appointment reminders, order updates) outside the 24-hour conversation window
- You expect high message volumes and need guaranteed delivery
- You want a connection that does not depend on a phone staying online
- Your business requires official compliance with Meta's WhatsApp Business policies
Prerequisites
Before setting up this channel, make sure you have:
- A Meta Business account at business.facebook.com
- A WhatsApp Business account connected to your Meta Business account
- A dedicated phone number for your business that is not currently registered with WhatsApp personal or the WhatsApp Business app
- Completed phone number verification through Meta's process
Setting up the connection
- In the sidebar, go to Integrações > Canais to open the Channels list.
- Click the Adicionar canal (Add channel) button.
- In the channel type dropdown, select WhatsApp API (Oficial).
- Additional configuration fields will appear. Enter the required API credentials, including your WhatsApp Business account details and access token from Meta.
- Complete the phone number verification if prompted.
- Save the channel.
Once connected, any message sent to your WhatsApp Business number will appear in your AutoTalk Inbox. You can reply directly, and your response will be delivered through WhatsApp.
Message templates
WhatsApp enforces a 24-hour conversation window. You can freely exchange messages with a customer for 24 hours after their last message. After that window closes, you must use a pre-approved message template to re-initiate contact.
From your channel settings, you can:
- View all cached message templates
- Refresh the template list from Meta
- Submit new templates for Meta's approval
Submit your message templates well in advance of needing them. Meta's approval process can take up to 24 hours, and templates that do not meet their content guidelines will be rejected.
Official API vs. other WhatsApp options
| Feature | WhatsApp API (Oficial) | WhatsApp QR Code | Evolution API |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meta approval required | Yes | No | No |
| Message templates | Yes | No | No |
| High-volume messaging | Yes | Limited | Moderate |
| Phone must stay online | No | Yes | Depends on setup |
| Self-hosted infrastructure | No | No | Yes |
Next steps
- WhatsApp Web and Evolution API — Explore QR code and self-hosted alternatives
- Adding an integration — General channel setup walkthrough