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WhatsApp Official API vs WhatsApp Cloud API

Choosing the Right WhatsApp Solution: A Comparison of WhatsApp Official Managed Services and WhatsApp Cloud API

This guide helps you to differentiate between the both solutions and choose the best solution for your business.

WhatsApp Business Solutions Offered by Picky Assist


1. WhatsApp Official Managed Services
2. WhatsApp Cloud API

WhatsApp Official Managed Services vs. WhatsApp Cloud API: A Comprehensive Guide

As a business, choosing the right WhatsApp channel is essential for seamless communication and efficient operations. At Picky Assist, we offer two distinct WhatsApp services: WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services and WhatsApp Cloud API.Both are official services provided by Meta, but each comes with its own set of features, benefits, and management options. In this article, we’ll break down the differences and similarities between the two to help you decide which is the best fit for your business.

1. WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services

WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services is an end-to-end solution managed by Picky Assist on behalf of your business. This service is designed for businesses that prefer a hands-off approach, allowing us to manage everything from setup to ongoing support and billing.

Key Features:

Managed by Picky Assist: We handle all aspects of the service, including setup, maintenance, and support.

Simplified Billing: Businesses pay per message charges directly to Picky Assist, with an additional $19 per month for those on the Ultimate Plan.

Seamless Experience: With our fully managed service, you can focus on your core business while we take care of the rest.

Benefits

Ease of Use: No need to worry about technical details or billing complexities. We manage everything for you.

Dedicated Support: Receive personalized support directly from Picky Assist whenever you need it.

No Direct Interaction with Meta: We handle all interactions with Meta, simplifying your experience.


2. WhatsApp Cloud API

WhatsApp Cloud API is a partially managed service where Picky Assist manages the messaging aspects, but Meta handles billing and support directly with the business. This service provides businesses with more control and direct interaction with Meta.

Key Features

Partially Managed by Picky Assist: We manage the messaging infrastructure while you handle billing directly with Meta.

Direct Billing with Meta: Businesses link their credit card in Facebook Business Manager, with charges applied based on usage

Free for One Channel: The service is free for one channel, with additional channels available at extra costs.

Benefits

Direct Meta Support: For businesses that prefer dealing directly with Meta, this service provides direct access to their support and billing.

Cost-Effective: Ideal for businesses looking to minimize additional fees, as there is no extra monthly charge beyond what Meta charges.

Greater Control: Businesses have more control over their WhatsApp API integration, including direct access to Meta’s resources.

Similarities Between WhatsApp Official Managed Services & WhatsApp Cloud API

Official WhatsApp Services: Both services are official WhatsApp solutions provided by Meta.

Messaging Infrastructure: Both services allow for the seamless sending and receiving of WhatsApp messages.

Integration Capabilities: Both can be integrated with your existing CRM, support desk, or email application.

Security: Both services adhere to the same security standards set by WhatsApp, ensuring the safety and privacy of your communications.

Difference Between WhatsApp Official Managed Services And WhatsApp Cloud Api

Feature/AspectWhatsApp Official Fully Managed ServicesWhatsApp Cloud API

  Management
 
Fully managed by Picky Assist
Partially managed by Picky Assist

  Billing

Through Picky Assist

Directly with Meta

  Support
Provided by Picky Assist
Provided by Meta
Additional
Costs
$19/month on Ultimate PlanFree for one channel, additional costs for more channels
Control
Less control, fully managedMore control, direct Meta interaction
  ComplexityMinimalModerate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which service should I choose for my business?

If you prefer a hands-off approach and want Picky Assist to manage everything for you, WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services is ideal. If you want more control and are comfortable handling billing and support directly with Meta, WhatsApp Cloud API may be the better option.

2. What are the costs associated with each service?

WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services has an additional charge of $19 per month on the Ultimate Plan, with message charges billed through Picky Assist. WhatsApp Cloud API is free for one channel, with Meta billing you directly based on usage.

3. Can I switch between services?

Yes, you can switch between WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services and WhatsApp Cloud API depending on your business needs. Contact Picky Assist support to initiate the switch.

4. How do I get started with either service?

Getting started is easy! Both services now feature embedded signup, allowing you to onboard in just 5 minutes using your Facebook account. For WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services, ensure you have a prepaid credit in your Picky Assist Wallet.

5. Is there a difference in message quality or delivery speed between the two services?

No, both services use the same WhatsApp messaging infrastructure, so message quality and delivery speed are identical.

Conclusion

Choosing between WhatsApp Official Fully Managed Services and WhatsApp Cloud API comes down to your business’s specific needs. Whether you value a fully managed experience with dedicated support or prefer more control and direct interaction with Meta, Picky Assist offers the right solution to help you leverage the power of WhatsApp for your business communications.

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