Differences Between WhatsApp's Official API and Standard API

Introduction

Before integrating WhatsApp into your business, it is essential to understand the differences between the Official API and the Standard API (unofficial). In this article, you will discover how each one works, their pros and cons, and which one is best suited to your company's current situation and objectives.

How it works

Standard API

This integration works by scanning the WhatsApp Web QR Code, simulating the use of the app in a browser. It is a practical and quick solution, used by many start-up businesses, as it does not require WhatsApp approval or bureaucratic steps.

However, as it is an unofficial solution, it has some limitations and risks:

• May be unstable (frequent connection drops)
• May be blocked or restricted by Meta
• Does not allow secure bulk sending
• Does not offer official support or guarantees for business use

Key Features

1. Message Formats: Messages sent through the Standard API are created and used in Free format, without the need for prior approval of message templates.

Note: For detailed guidance on creating messages, we recommend consulting our tutorial: Exploring the WhatsApp Message Editor

2. Authentication: The connection is established by scanning the QR Code, a procedure similar to that used in WhatsApp Web.

Note: For detailed instructions on how to connect your Standard API number in Reportana, see our article: How to Connect WhatsApp

3. Less stability: Using the Standard API may result in occasional instability and lower security. However, following the recommended best practices for using the Standard API reduces the occurrence of instability. For detailed guidance on best practices, we recommend consulting our tutorial: Best Practices for Using the Standard API

4. Risk of blocking: As mentioned in the previous step, inappropriate use that violates Meta's guidelines, such as sending messages inappropriately (spam) or on a large scale (bulk mailings), may result in the WhatsApp number being blocked;

5. Profile photo synchronization: When using the Standard API, customers' profile pictures are synchronized normally in Reportana's chat, provided that the customer's privacy settings allow this;

6. Sending messages free of charge: Using the Standard API, there are no additional costs for sending messages.

WhatsApp Official API

The Official WhatsApp API is an advanced solution available to users of Reportana's Enterprise and Enterprise+ plans. This is the integration authorized and approved by Meta (the company that owns WhatsApp). It is recommended for companies that want to scale their customer service with security, stability, and compliance with the platform's policies.

Key benefits:

• High stability and security
• Support for bulk messages with approved templates
• Automated shipping with higher, controlled limits
• Access to business features (tags, status, metrics, etc.)
• Guarantee of compliance with WhatsApp Business Terms of Use

Key Features

1. Message format: Messages are sent in Template format (messages verified by the Meta) and can be sent at any time, even outside the 24-hour window. This requires prior approval from the Meta. These messages are classified in the categories Authentication, Marketing or Utility, depending on their purpose;

2. Costs: Messages in the Template format have costs according to their category;

3. Interactive Buttons: Messages can contain link and quick reply buttons, improving interactivity with the contact;

4. Meta Verified: The WhatsApp Official API is a requirement for companies to be able to apply for and obtain the WhatsApp Business verification seal, which gives the brand greater credibility;

5. Secure authentication: Uses a more robust and secure authentication, provided by Meta;

6. Official Support: Meta offers technical support and full documentation for the Official API;

7. Connection Stability: The official version of WhatsApp used for integrations is more stable and reliable, with less chance of crashes or interruptions, which helps ensure that messages are sent more securely;

8. Daily sending limit: Meta allows you to send messages to a limited number of customers per day, depending on the stage of your account;

9. Security blocks: Meta can block the number connected to the Official WhatsApp API if the rules of use are not complied with. It is forbidden to send content that is false, inappropriate, fraudulent, misleading, related to election campaigns or any material that could cause harm to third parties. The practice of spam is also prohibited.

10. Message synchronization: In the official WhatsApp API, messages sent by the sender through the mobile app are not synchronized with the Reportana chat. Furthermore, in template messages, certain specific elements such as buttons, footer, and header are also not synchronized in the Reportana chat.

Note: For guidance on How to Connect your Official WhatsApp API number to Reportana, consult our article: How to Connect the Official WhatsApp API

Which to choose?

The choice between the Standard API and the Official WhatsApp API in Reportana should be made based on the scale and specific needs of each business. The Standard API is a more accessible and straightforward option for those looking for basic automation and multi-service functionality, without the complexity of pre-approved templates or the additional costs of Meta.

On the other hand, WhatsApp's Official API is more professional and ready to scale with your business. It allows you to send messages at any time using ready-made templates, which is ideal for companies with a higher demand for sending and who are looking for greater security.

Conclusion: If you're just starting out and need a quick solution, the standard API can do the trick in the short term. But if you want to grow safely, scale up your service and avoid the risk of blockages, it's best to migrate to the Official API, which offers all the necessary resources for a professional and stable operation.