WhatsApp's API pricing can initially seem quite complex, but it's quite manageable once broken down.
Here's an in-depth look at how it works:
Contents
Types of Messages and Their Cost
Business Generated Conversations:
Template Messages:
Nature: Template messages are pre-approved messages used for initiating conversations or sending notifications. These templates are crucial in customer outreach, appointment reminders, event notifications, and product updates.
Cost Implications: These messages are chargeable. The cost varies depending on the region and the network of the user receiving the message.
2. Session Messages:
Nature: These messages are part of a conversation initiated by the customer. A 24-hour window allows businesses to reply with free-form messages, enabling personalised and interactive communication.
Transition to Template Messages: Post the 24-hour window, any messages sent are classified as template messages and are chargeable.
Conversation Costs:
Different types of conversations have distinct pricing structures. These include marketing, authentication, utility, and service conversations, each serving a unique purpose and priced accordingly.
Detailed Breakdown of Conversation Costs
Marketing Conversations: Aimed at promoting products or services, these conversations are critical for businesses to engage with their customers.
The cost in India is INR 0.7265/ conversation.
Authentication Conversations: Often used for sending OTPs or account verification messages, these are crucial for security.
Authentication conversations are not available in India.
Utility Conversations: These are used for practical interactions like sending billing information or transaction alerts.
The cost in India is INR 0.3082/ conversation.
Service Conversations: Focused on customer service, these conversations are vital for maintaining customer relations.
The cost in India is INR 0.2906/ conversation.
Country-Specific Rates
One of the complexities of the WhatsApp API pricing model is the variation in costs across different countries. This means that the charges are based on the user's location and network, not the business's location.
It's essential for businesses operating internationally to understand these geographical pricing nuances.
Apart from direct messaging costs, if you're using the WhatsApp API through third-party services, additional expenses might include which are charged by BSPs(Business Service Provider) like Wati, Aisensy, Heltar their price vary according to the will of the company. Its is worth noting that Heltar doesn’t charge any premium.
Understanding the pricing structure of WhatsApp API is crucial for businesses planning to leverage this powerful communication tool. By being aware of the different types of messages, the varying costs, and additional expenses, companies can make informed decisions to optimize their customer engagement strategies while keeping costs in check.
Checkout Heltar for free for life Wati alternative.
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FAQ
Q. If I'm in Dubai and my account is based in India, what pricing applies?
Ans Charges are based on the user's location, not the account's origin of the business. So if your user is accessing the service from India then you will be billed according to the rates of India.
Q. How Template are differentiated by WhatsApp?
Ans WhatsApp templates are categorised based on their content and use, such as transactional, promotional, or informational. Each template follows a specific structure with areas for customisation, ensuring consistency and personalisation. For a deeper understanding, visit WhatsApp's Business API documentation.
Q. What is the free messaging limit on WhatsApp Business API?
Ans The first 1,000 user-initiated conversations per month and per WhatsApp Business account are free.
Q. If a business sends more than one message template in an open 24-hour conversation session, will it be charged for it?
Ans If a business sends a new conversation of the same category in the 24-hour window, there will be no additional charges. However, if a business delivers two different types of templates, for example, it first sent a utility template, and then starts a marketing template, a new conversation is opened, and charged separately according to the message category.
