Connect WhatsApp via Cloud API (Meta official)
Use Meta's official WhatsApp Business Cloud API for highest reliability and template messaging.
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WhatsApp Cloud API is Meta’s official API. More reliable than the gateway approach but stricter rules (24-hour customer service window, template approvals, per-message pricing).
Best for: Verified businesses, brands sending high-volume templates, customer support at scale.
Prerequisites
- A Meta Business Manager account
- A WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)
- A phone number registered with Cloud API
- A System User access token with
whatsapp_business_messagingpermission
See Meta’s Cloud API Get Started for the Meta-side setup.
1. Connect in WaSMS
- Go to Dashboard → Channels.
- Click + Add channel → WhatsApp Cloud API.
- Paste your Phone Number ID and Access Token.
- Click Connect.
2. Set the webhook in Meta
WaSMS shows you a webhook URL. In Meta Business Manager → WhatsApp → Configuration → Webhooks, paste it with the verify token. Subscribe to the messages field.
3. Send a test
Send a test message from Conversations to a number that previously messaged you (Cloud API cannot initiate cold — only respond or use templates).
Templates
To initiate outside the 24-hour window, you need approved templates. Submit them in Meta Business Manager.
Pricing
Cloud API has per-conversation pricing charged by Meta.