Introducing WhatsApp Business App Coexistence
The WhatsApp Business App Coexistence feature allows you to use your current number with the WhatsApp Business official API, working together at the same time without changing WhatsApp number.
This means you can leverage advanced API functionalities like bulk messaging, chatbots, and automation workflows while maintaining the ability to send messages directly through the WhatsApp Business App.
This feature is ideal for teams transitioning to API-based workflows while continuing to use their existing mobile app.
What is WhatsApp Coexistence?
Coexistence enables you to onboard a phone number already in use with the WhatsApp Business App for API access. Both the API and the app can operate simultaneously on the same number, giving businesses the flexibility to:
- Use advanced API features for large-scale operations
- Continue one-to-one messaging through the mobile app
- Seamlessly transition between platforms as needed
Why use WhatsApp Coexistence?
Scenario 1: Seamless multi-device communication
Your team members can communicate with customers using a work computer during the day and continue conversations via the mobile app in the evening.
✅ Benefit: Messages are synchronized between the mobile app and the API. Messages sent via the API appear in the WhatsApp Business App, and messages sent via the app appear in your platform's conversation history.
Scenario 2: Advanced features with mobile app access
You want to use features like bulk marketing messages, intelligent chatbot auto-replies, and automated workflows while maintaining access through the mobile app.
✅ Benefit: WhatsApp Coexistence allows you to use all advanced API features while retaining one-to-one messaging capabilities in the app.
Scenario 3: Skip the hassle of new number registration
You already have an active number in WhatsApp Business App and want to avoid registering a new API number.
✅ Benefit: Seamlessly connect your existing WhatsApp Business App number and use API functionalities without deleting your original WhatsApp Business account.
Important Information
Limitations
This feature is not available for businesses in these countries (as identified by the Business App phone number):
- Nigeria
- South Africa
To remain compatible with the WhatsApp Business app, business phone numbers that are in use with both the WhatsApp Business app and Cloud API have a fixed throughput of 5 messages per second.
Requirements
To use this feature, you must be using WhatsApp Business app version 2.24.17 or higher.
Pricing
- Messages sent from the WhatsApp Business app remain free
- Messages sent from the API platform are charged based on WhatsApp's standard API pricing model
Synchronization Notes
- Messages are synchronized between both platforms
- Media messages (images, videos, audio) older than 14 days cannot be synchronized
- New messages will only appear after the initial synchronization is complete
How to enable Coexistence
Step 1: Connect your WhatsApp Business App number
Go to on the following page:
Step 2: Share conversation history
You'll be given the option to share your WhatsApp Business App messaging history with the platform. If you choose to share:
- Keep the WhatsApp Business App open during synchronization
- Wait for the synchronization to complete before new messages appear in your inbox
- Note that media older than 14 days will not be synchronized
Step 5: Complete business information
Enter your business details when prompted:
- Business name: Must match the name on your registration documents (important for future business verification)
- Website: Enter your business website, or check "My business does not have a website" if applicable
Step 6: Confirm authorization
Review the permissions and click Confirm to complete the authorization binding. The system will process your connection and redirect you to the account list page.
Your WhatsApp Business App number is now connected and will be indicated with a special icon showing it's a coexistence number.
How to disable Coexistence
You can only disconnect your WhatsApp Business App from the platform using your mobile phone.
For iOS:
- Open WhatsApp Business App
- Go to Settings → Account → Business Platform
- Tap on the connected business platform
- Select Disconnect
For Android:
- Open WhatsApp Business App
- Go to Settings → Account → Business Platform
- Tap on the connected business platform
- Select Disconnect
Feature Comparison
Once your WhatsApp Business App is connected via coexistence, certain features behave differently:
Need help?
If you encounter any issues during the coexistence setup process, please contact our support team for assistance.