WhatsApp Business API in India: a plain guide
What the WhatsApp Business Platform is, how Meta charges for it, and how to connect your number to Sowhat — without the jargon.
App or API?
The free WhatsApp Business app is built for one phone. The WhatsApp Business Platform (often called the API) is Meta’s service for businesses that need several people answering one number, messages sent from software, approved templates, and automation. Sowhat connects to it on your behalf as an approved Meta Tech Provider.
How Meta charges
- Meta charges per template message, and the rate depends on the category (marketing, utility, authentication) and the customer’s country.
- When a customer messages you, you can reply freely for 24 hours — under Meta’s current pricing, those service replies are not charged.
- The charges are billed by Meta to your own WhatsApp Business account. Sowhat never adds a markup; your plan pays only for the software.
- Rates change from time to time — always check Meta’s current rate card.
What you need
- A Facebook account and a Meta business portfolio (Sowhat’s sign-up window can create one).
- A phone number that can receive an SMS or call for verification. A number already on the WhatsApp Business app can be connected with coexistence and stay on the app.
- A display name that matches your business.
Connect in Sowhat
One click
Settings → WhatsApp accounts → Connect WhatsApp. Meta’s window walks you through the business, the number and the verification code.
Paste one token
Already on the API? Paste a permanent system-user token; Sowhat lists your numbers and you pick one. No phone number ID or WABA ID to copy.
Check it works
Send yourself a message. Sowhat’s connection doctor explains any problem in plain words.
Keep your number healthy
- Message only people who agreed to hear from you; Sowhat records opt-outs (STOP) automatically.
- Use templates for anything after 24 hours, and keep marketing relevant.
- Watch the quality rating Sowhat shows for each number.