WhatsApp is a messaging app that most of us will already be aware of in our personal lives. However, with Superchat, you can make use of the app on large scale by utilising its API (Application Programming Interface).
If you're unsure of what an API is, put simply: it's a way for two apps to talk to each other. In the context of the WhatsApp-Superchat connection, the API is what allows Superchat to plug into your WhatsApp number and manage messages — rather than you having to do it all manually through the app on your phone.
Don't worry if you are confused about the various forms of WhatsApp — there are three and they all sound incredibly similar:
WhatsApp app
WhatsApp Business app
WhatsApp API
Choosing the right connection option for you depends on what you have already done with WhatsApp and what you need Superchat to do for you.
Connect a brand new number (one not already connected to WhatsApp)
Select if you have a phone number that you have never used with WhatsApp.
This can be a new SIM, a landline (which is free), or a spare business number.
This is the simplest setup path, as there is no migration involved. The number will be registered fresh on the WhatsApp Business Platform.
You can find instructions on how to complete this setup flow here.
Move number completely to Superchat
Select if you use WhatsApp (the regular app or the Business App) and want to fully switch to Superchat.
Important: this is a permanent switch. Once completed, your number will no longer work in the WhatsApp app. All messages will be managed through Superchat from that point on.
Use WhatsApp Business App (phone) and Superchat simultaneously
Select this if you use the WhatsApp Business App and want to keep using it alongside Superchat.
This option uses Meta's Coexistence Flow, which allows a single number to be connected to both the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API simultaneously. This is currently in beta. Note that some feature limitations may apply during the beta period.
You can find instructions for the setup flow here.
Move to Superchat from a different API provider
Select if you already use the WhatsApp API for your business through another provider.
During this flow you will disconnect your number from your existing provider and reconnect it to Superchat via Meta Business Manager. Your number and message history are retained, but there will be a brief period during migration where the number is offline.