Twilio API for WhatsApp
Twilio API for WhatsApp
The Twilio API for WhatsApp enables you to reach over 1.5 billion users on WhatsApp using a simple REST API, all in Twilio’s Programmable Messaging platform. WhatsApp is the most popular OTT app in many parts of the world. If you're trying to reach – and better converse with – users in LATAM, EMEA, and APAC you need to consider using WhatsApp. Learn More about WhatsApp.
Twilio API for WhatsApp is now available in early access, which allows developers to start building and prototyping in a sandbox. In order to launch apps in production, you can request access to enable WhatsApp on your Twilio number. WhatsApp is currently opening up this access in a Limited Availability program, where WhatsApp approval is required for all customers who wish to create their own profiles.
WhatsApp Opt-In Requirements
WhatsApp requires that your application implement explicit user opt-ins to deliver messages over WhatsApp. You may gather this opt-in via a web page or mobile app (for example during your signup flow, in account settings, via SMS, etc.) Sending users messages without an opt-in may result in users blocking your business and suspension of your Whatsapp business account.
Using Phone Numbers with WhatsApp
On WhatsApp, users message each other using phone numbers. To send and receive messages on WhatsApp using the Twilio Programmable Messaging API you'll need a phone number as well. The Twilio API addresses WhatsApp users and your numbers using a prefixed address format:
Twilio Sandbox for WhatsApp
Twilio Sandbox for WhatsApp allows you to prototype with WhatsApp immediately, without waiting for your Twilio number to be approved for WhatsApp.
It is pre-provisioned with a Twilio phone number that is shared across all sandbox users. You can pick from a list of sandbox numbers to use when you activate the sandbox via the WhatsApp console here