The WhatsApp Business API is transforming how small businesses communicate with customers. Learn everything you need to know to get started.
What is the WhatsApp Business API?
The WhatsApp Business API allows businesses to communicate with customers at scale using WhatsApp's messaging platform.
Benefits for Small Businesses
- Automated customer support
- Bulk messaging (with permission)
- Integration with existing systems
- Professional business profile
Can I Keep My Number and the WhatsApp Business App?
Yes. A common worry is that moving to the API means losing your number, your chat history, or the app on your phone. With Meta's official Coexistence, you keep all three. The same phone number runs the WhatsApp Business app and the API at once: you can keep replying to customers yourself from the app, while the platform handles automation, orders and 24/7 replies on that same number. Contacts and up to 6 months of chat history can be synced, and messages are mirrored between the app and the API.
Coexistence is an official, supported Meta capability — not a workaround, and not a takeover of your number. A few app features change after onboarding (group chats, broadcast lists, disappearing messages, view-once, live location and voice/video calls are limited, and linked companion devices may need re-linking). Before you start, turn off 2-step verification so Meta can register the number — then turn it back on as soon as onboarding finishes. It does not affect your number or the app. Most importantly: never uninstall or delete the WhatsApp Business app after connecting — that disconnects the number.
Getting Started
To get started, you'll need to work with an official WhatsApp Business Solution Provider like Whapick. We handle the technical setup so you can focus on your business.