WhatsApp vs WhatsApp Now

WhatsApp is a free messaging and calling app for Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows. Users can exchange text, photos, videos, documents, and location, and make voice calls. Voice and video calls are end-to-end encrypted, have no time limits, and work one-to-one or in groups across iOS, Android, and web; group calls support up to 32 people. Calls can also be made in a browser. WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption keeps personal messages and calls private from others, including WhatsApp. Privacy controls include locked chats, disappearing messages, encrypted backups, online-visibility settings, and blocking unknown callers. Users can report messages, people, or businesses, and block contacts. Up to four devices can be linked to a primary phone, which is required to register an account and link new devices. Minimum requirements listed include Android OS 6.0, iOS 15.1, macOS 12.1, and Windows 10 or newer; iPadOS 15.1 is also listed. Data charges may apply, and calls use an internet connection. WhatsApp Business helps businesses showcase products and services and build customer relationships.

WhatsApp Now is a WhatsApp Business API platform for marketing, customer engagement, authentication, and support. It says it uses Meta's WhatsApp Business Platform on its Cloud API. Teams can create, schedule, and manage personalized campaigns with audience segmentation and targeting, while a shared inbox supports collaborative handling of conversations. Listed AI chatbot uses include answering FAQs, qualifying leads, handling bookings, and guiding customer journeys around the clock. For authentication, the platform supports OTP templates and automatic SMS fallback. Real-time reporting covers campaign performance, engagement, conversions, response rates, and audience behavior. Users can sync a CRM or connect lead sources when importing audiences and creating campaigns. The listed platforms are Android, iOS, web, and API. API setup requires a verified Facebook Business Manager, a Message Central account, a linked Facebook business account, and a verified phone number. The Pay as you go plan costs nothing and includes a shared inbox, broadcasting, scheduling, unlimited contacts, up to 10 tags, and up to five custom attributes. Enterprise costs ₹4,999 a month, billed monthly, with additional conversation charges.