WhatsApp Business vs WhatsApp Business API: what are the differences for businesses?

WhatsApp, one of the most widely used brands in Switzerland, is emerging as a key customer communication channel. But for businesses, two very distinct solutions exist: WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business API (also known as WhatsApp Platform).

Each solution has its purpose: the former is built for small businesses managing communication manually; the latter enables large-scale integration into complex digital ecosystems.


WhatsApp Business App: simplicity and autonomy for small businesses

Designed for small businesses, independent professionals, and shop owners, the WhatsApp Business App is free and available on Android/iOS. It allows manual customer messaging directly from a smartphone.

Key features:

• Business profile (address, description, hours)
• Simple auto-replies (away, greeting, FAQ)
• Broadcasts to up to 256 contacts
• Manual product catalog, up to 500 items
• No CRM or API integration
• Compatible with 1 mobile phone + 4 desktop devices
• No message templates or proactive marketing campaigns
• No official verification (no green badge)
• No advanced GDPR compliance management

🎯 Ideal for: local merchants, artisans, and small shops sending a few dozen messages per day to customers.


WhatsApp Business API (Platform): power, scalability, and automation

The WhatsApp Business API is built for growing businesses, support teams, or e-commerce players looking to automate messaging, connect WhatsApp to their CRM, or run large-scale campaigns.

Advanced features:

• Unlimited users, API access
• Full integration with CRM, ERP, and e-commerce tools
• Chatbots, conversational flows, customized AI
• Dynamic and interactive product catalog
• Template messages for proactive campaigns (follow-ups, notifications)
• Unlimited marketing campaigns (with consent)
• Verification with official green badge
• Multiple entry points: QR code, Click-to-Chat, Meta ads
• Built-in GDPR/nFADP compliance tools
• Conversation-based pricing, with 1,000 free service messages/month

💡 To activate this solution, you need an official partner like Sandra, who handles setup, secure hosting (🇨🇭), compliance, and integrations.

Sandra supports you in activating, configuring, and strategically operating WhatsApp API: AI, catalog, payments, acquisition, GDPR compliance — all managed from Switzerland, with security and trust.

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