The WhatsApp Business App is free and works for micro-businesses. The WhatsApp Business API unlocks automation, multi-agent support, and unlimited broadcasts — but costs money. Here's exactly when to use each, and how to make the switch.
| Feature | Business App | Business API (WA.Expert) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Meta fees + WA.Expert from ₹2,499/mo |
| Devices / agents | 1 phone + 4 linked devices | Unlimited agents, any device |
| Broadcast limit | 256 contacts per list | Unlimited (opted-in contacts) |
| Automation / chatbot | Basic quick replies only | Full chatbot, flows, AI |
| CRM integration | Not available | HubSpot, Zoho, Salesforce, custom |
| Team inbox | Not available | Shared inbox, assignments, tags |
| Analytics | Basic message counts | Delivery, read, click, campaign analytics |
| Template messages | Not available | Meta-approved templates for outbound |
| Broadcast requires saved number | Yes | No |
| Green tick eligibility | No | Yes (for eligible businesses) |
| WhatsApp Flows | Not available | Available |
| Setup complexity | Download app — 5 min | 3–7 days with BSP assistance |
Chat history cannot be migrated to the API. Export any important conversations before migrating: WhatsApp Business App → Settings → Chats → Chat Backup or export individual chats. Once migration completes, the App account is permanently deleted.
Manually document your broadcast list contacts and any quick reply templates you use frequently. You'll recreate these in WA.Expert after migration.
During WA.Expert onboarding, when you add your phone number to WhatsApp API registration, Meta detects it's currently on WhatsApp Business App. You'll be prompted to confirm the migration.
Confirming the migration takes about 10 minutes. The WhatsApp Business App account on that number is deleted. The number is immediately active on the API via WA.Expert.
Import your contact list, set up your chatbot flows, create WhatsApp templates (need Meta approval — 24 hrs), and configure integrations. Most businesses are fully set up within 1 business day of migration.
The migration is permanent. You cannot go back to the WhatsApp Business App on the same number after migrating to API. Ensure you've exported everything important before confirming.
WA.Expert handles the migration, Meta setup, and template approval. Most businesses are live on API within 3–7 days.