The WhatsApp Business API, with an AI agent already on it
Balawari connects your number to Meta’s official WhatsApp Cloud API and puts an AI chatbot, a shared team inbox and real bookings on top — no developers, no unofficial tools that get numbers banned.
WhatsApp Business app vs WhatsApp Business API
The free app works for a single owner replying by hand. Once messages outgrow one phone, the API is the only official way to automate and scale.
| Capability | WhatsApp Business app | WhatsApp Business API + Balawari |
|---|---|---|
| Who replies | One person on one phone | AI agent plus your whole team |
| AI chatbot | Basic away and greeting messages | Full AI agent that answers, qualifies and books |
| Team access | A few linked devices | Your team in one shared inbox, with handoff from the AI |
| Bookings & payments | Handled by hand in the chat | Real bookings and advance payment links from Balawari Booking |
| Follow-ups & reminders | Manual | Automated with approved message templates |
Get on the WhatsApp Business API in three steps
- 01
Verify your business with Meta
Create or use your Meta Business account and add your business details.
- 02
Connect your WhatsApp number
Link a phone number to the WhatsApp Cloud API through Balawari in a few clicks.
- 03
Switch on the AI agent
Add services, prices and FAQs, test in preview, and let the agent start replying.
WhatsApp Business API — questions, answered
What is the WhatsApp Business API?
The WhatsApp Business API (now the WhatsApp Business Platform and Cloud API) is Meta’s official way for businesses to send and receive WhatsApp messages at scale through software, instead of a single phone running the WhatsApp Business app.
What is the difference between the WhatsApp Business app and the API?
The app is designed for one person replying manually on a phone. The API lets software — such as an AI chatbot and a shared team inbox — handle conversations, integrate with booking and payment systems, and send approved template messages.
Can I use my existing WhatsApp number with the API?
Yes, in most cases. A number registered on the WhatsApp Business API cannot be used in the regular WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app at the same time, so the chats move to your Balawari inbox instead.
How does WhatsApp Business API pricing work?
Meta charges per message for certain template messages sent outside the 24-hour customer service window, with rates that depend on the message category and country. Replies inside the 24-hour window after a customer messages you are free of Meta charges.
What is the 24-hour customer service window?
When a customer messages you, a 24-hour window opens in which you can reply freely. After it closes, you can only start the conversation again with a Meta-approved message template. Balawari handles this automatically.
Is an AI chatbot allowed on WhatsApp?
Yes. Businesses can use AI agents on the WhatsApp Business Platform for customer support, bookings and sales, as long as they follow Meta’s commerce and messaging policies — for example, giving customers a clear way to reach a person.
Put an AI agent on your WhatsApp number
Put an AI agent on your WhatsApp today — answering, booking and following up while your team focuses on the work.