> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.meetcosmo.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# WhatsApp Business Integration

> Connect your WhatsApp Business account to Cosmo

## Why WhatsApp

* **98% open rate** vs 20% for email
* **2 billion users** worldwide
* **Instant delivery** and real-time conversations
* **Rich media** support (images, videos, documents)
* **Trusted channel** customers already use

## Setup

<Steps>
  <Step title="Prerequisites">
    You need a WhatsApp Business account (not personal WhatsApp)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Go to Settings">
    Navigate to **Settings** → **Integrations** in Cosmo
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect WhatsApp">
    Click **WhatsApp Business** card → **Connect**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Scan QR Code">Scan QR code with WhatsApp on your phone</Step>
  <Step title="Authorize">Confirm connection in WhatsApp app</Step>
</Steps>

<Info>
  Connection takes 1-2 minutes. Once connected, Cosmo can receive and respond to
  WhatsApp messages automatically.
</Info>

## Requirements

### WhatsApp Business Account

* Must use **WhatsApp Business** app (not regular WhatsApp)
* Phone number dedicated to business (can't be used for personal WhatsApp)
* Download: [iOS](https://apps.apple.com/app/whatsapp-business/id1386412985) | [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.whatsapp.w4b)

### Business Verification (Optional)

Get green checkmark badge:

* Provides higher message limits
* Increases customer trust
* Required for large-scale campaigns

## 24-Hour Messaging Window

**Important WhatsApp rule:**

* Can message customers **anytime** if they contacted you in last 24 hours
* After 24 hours, need **approved message templates** for outreach
* Customer replies reopen the 24-hour window

<Warning>
  If customer hasn't messaged in 24+ hours, you can't send free-form messages.
  Use campaigns with approved templates instead.
</Warning>

## Message Types Supported

* **Text** with formatting (bold, italic)
* **Images** (JPEG, PNG up to 5MB)
* **Videos** (MP4 up to 16MB)
* **Audio** and voice messages
* **Documents** (PDF, DOCX, etc.)
* **Location** sharing
* **Interactive buttons** and lists
* **Quick reply** buttons

## Best Practices

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Get Permission First">
    Only message customers who opted in. Save their opt-in for compliance.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Respond Quickly">
    Fast responses = better customer experience and higher engagement.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Use Rich Media">
    Send product images, how-to videos, and documents when helpful.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Respect the 24-Hour Window">
    Don't spam after window closes. Use approved templates for follow-ups.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Compliance

WhatsApp prohibits:

* Spam or unsolicited messages
* Misleading information
* Adult content
* Illegal activities

**Violations can result in account suspension.**

## Troubleshooting

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Connection Issues" icon="plug">
    Can't connect WhatsApp Business
  </Card>

  <Card title="Messaging Issues" icon="message">
    Messages not sending or receiving
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

### Connection Issues

**Can't connect WhatsApp?**

* Verify you're using WhatsApp Business (not personal)
* Check phone has active internet
* Make sure number isn't already connected elsewhere
* Try logging out and back in to WhatsApp

### Messaging Issues

**Messages not sending?**

* Check 24-hour messaging window
* Verify recipient hasn't blocked you
* Ensure WhatsApp Business account is active

**Need Help?**

Contact our team: [eng@meetcosmo.ai](mailto:eng@meetcosmo.ai)