Why WhatsApp matters
WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging platform with over 3 billion active users across 180+ countries. For businesses, it represents an unmatched opportunity:- 98% open rates — compared to 20-30% for email and 45% for SMS
- 45-60% click-through rates on business messages
- Preferred business channel in Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa
- Rich media support — images, videos, documents, buttons, and interactive lists
- End-to-end encryption — customers trust WhatsApp with sensitive conversations
How WhatsApp works in HoopAI
HoopAI connects to WhatsApp through the Meta WhatsApp Business API, giving you enterprise-grade messaging capabilities directly inside your CRM.- Unified inbox
- CRM integration
- Automation & workflows
- AI agents
Every WhatsApp message lands in the same Conversations inbox alongside SMS, email, Facebook Messenger, Instagram DM, and live chat. Your team works from one screen — no app switching.
Quick links
Connect & send messages
Connect your WhatsApp Business number, send messages, media, voice notes, and snippets.
WhatsApp coexistence
Use the same number on HoopAI and the WhatsApp Business App simultaneously.
WhatsApp pricing
Conversation categories, regional rates, free tier, and cost optimization.
24-hour messaging window
Understand the rules, strategies, and automation tips for the messaging window.
Advanced templates
Template approval, quality ratings, interactive buttons, and media headers.
WhatsApp automation
Workflows, AI agents, chatbot flows, drip sequences, and bulk campaigns.
WhatsApp settings
Business profile, template creation, and analytics configuration.
WhatsApp troubleshooting
Common issues, error codes, and step-by-step fixes.
WhatsApp vs SMS comparison
| Feature | SMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Global reach | 3B+ users in 180+ countries | Universal but declining in many markets |
| Open rate | ~98% | ~95% |
| Click-through rate | 45-60% | 5-10% |
| Rich media | Images, video, documents, audio, location, contacts | Text only (MMS for media, limited support) |
| Interactive elements | Buttons, quick replies, lists, product catalogs | None |
| Cost model | Per conversation (24-hour window) | Per message segment |
| Cost range | 0.08 per conversation (varies by region) | 0.05 per segment (US) |
| Delivery reliability | Very high (internet-based) | Carrier-dependent, filtering risk |
| Business identity | Verified profile with logo, description, hours | Phone number only |
| 24-hour window | Yes — free-form messaging only during open window | No restriction |
| Template requirement | Required outside 24-hour window | Not required |
| End-to-end encryption | Yes | No |
| Two-way conversations | Natural, threaded | Supported but less natural |
| Best for | International, rich engagement, support | US/Canada domestic, simple alerts |
Prerequisites checklist
Before connecting WhatsApp to HoopAI, make sure you have:Meta Business account
A Meta Business account (formerly Facebook Business Manager). This is free to create.
Business verification
Your Meta Business account must be verified. This involves submitting business documents (registration, utility bill, or similar). Verification typically takes 1-5 business days.
WhatsApp Business API access
You need access to the WhatsApp Business API through your Meta Business account. HoopAI uses the WhatsApp Cloud API — no third-party BSP required.
Phone number
A phone number that can receive an SMS or voice call for verification. This can be your existing WhatsApp Business App number (see coexistence) or a new number.
If you already use WhatsApp Business App with your number, you do not need to give it up. HoopAI supports coexistence — read the coexistence guide to learn how.
Next steps
Once you have the prerequisites in place:- Connect your number — follow the step-by-step guide in WhatsApp messaging
- Set up your business profile — configure your display name, description, and hours in WhatsApp settings
- Create message templates — get your first templates approved for outbound messaging in Advanced templates
- Build automations — automate replies, reminders, and campaigns in WhatsApp automation
Do I need a separate phone for WhatsApp?
Do I need a separate phone for WhatsApp?
No. You just need a phone number that can receive a one-time verification code via SMS or voice call during setup. After that, all messaging happens through HoopAI — no physical phone required.
Can I use my personal WhatsApp number?
Can I use my personal WhatsApp number?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. When you connect a personal number to the Business API, your personal WhatsApp account on that number will be disconnected. Use a dedicated business number instead.
How many WhatsApp numbers can I connect?
How many WhatsApp numbers can I connect?
You can connect multiple WhatsApp Business numbers to HoopAI, each linked to a different Meta Business account or WhatsApp Business Account (WABA). This is useful for multi-location businesses.
Is WhatsApp available in all countries?
Is WhatsApp available in all countries?
WhatsApp Business API is available in most countries where WhatsApp operates. A few countries have restrictions. Check Meta’s documentation for the latest availability.
What if my contacts don't use WhatsApp?
What if my contacts don't use WhatsApp?
HoopAI’s multi-channel inbox means you can fall back to SMS, email, or other channels automatically. Use workflow conditions to check if a contact is reachable on WhatsApp before sending.