Key Takeaways
As per 2023, WhatsApp business was being used by more than 1.5 billion users. This is because of WhatsApp’s penetration in highly populated countries like India, Brazil, Russia etc. Due to high usage by the users, it only makes sense for businesses to reach out to their users on WhatsApp itself.
One of its key features, WhatsApp Broadcast, allows users to send messages to multiple recipients at once without creating a group. Not all broadcasts work the same way—there are different types suited for different needs. You can also refer to example of a WhatsApp broadcast for a better understanding.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of WhatsApp broadcasts, their use cases, and how businesses can leverage them for better communication and engagement.
What Is a WhatsApp Broadcast?
A WhatsApp Broadcast is a feature that allows users to send a single message to multiple contacts at once while keeping the conversation private. Unlike WhatsApp Groups, where all participants can see and reply to messages, a broadcast message appears as an individual chat for each recipient.
There are two ways for a business to send a WhatsApp broadcast: -
- Through WhatsApp business app
- Through WhatsApp business APIs or a WhatsApp marketing platform
When a business or user sends a broadcast message, the recipients receive it in their private chat window. However, if sent through WhatsApp business app only those who have saved the sender's number in their contacts will receive the broadcast message.
For businesses using WhatsApp business API, this rule does not apply. They can send bulk messages to customers without the requirement of being saved as a contact.
Different Types of WhatsApp Broadcasts
There are several types of WhatsApp broadcasts, each catering to different needs. The choice of broadcast type depends on the sender’s requirements—whether it’s for marketing, customer service, or transactional communication.
- Personal WhatsApp Broadcast (Standard WhatsApp Broadcast List)
This is the most basic form of broadcast, available to all users of WhatsApp. It allows a message to be sent to up to 256 contacts at once. With WhatsApp marketing platforms, you can avoid the limit restriction. However, only people who have saved the sender’s number will receive the broadcast.
Use Cases:
- Sending personal updates to family and friends
- Notifying colleagues about important work-related updates
- Sharing event invitations
Limitations:
- Only 256 recipients per broadcast list
- Recipients must save the sender’s contact to receive messages
- WhatsApp Business Broadcast (Using WhatsApp Business App)
For small and medium-sized businesses, the WhatsApp business app offers a broadcast feature similar to the personal WhatsApp. Businesses can create a broadcast list to send messages to up to 256 recipients at once, provided that these contacts have saved their number.
Use Cases:
- Sending promotional offers and discounts to loyal customers
- Sharing product updates and announcements
- Engaging with existing customers for feedback and reviews
Limitations:
- Same restrictions as personal WhatsApp broadcasts (256 recipients, contacts must have the sender saved)
- Cannot schedule or automate WhatsApp messages
- Not suitable for large-scale campaigns
- WhatsApp Business API Broadcast (Bulk Messaging for Enterprises)
For businesses that require mass communication, WhatsApp Business API is the best solution. Unlike the WhatsApp business app, the API allows businesses to send unlimited broadcasts without the 256-recipient limit.
Key Features:
- No limit on the number of recipients
- No need for recipients to save the sender’s number
- Automated and scheduled messaging
- Integration with CRM and customer support tools
- Rich media support (images, videos, and interactive buttons)
Use Cases:
- Large-scale marketing campaigns with WhatsApp marketing services
- Sending order confirmations, invoices, and delivery updates
- Customer service notifications (appointment reminders, OTP verification, etc.)
Limitations:
- Requires WhatsApp Business API approval
- Messages must follow WhatsApp’s template guidelines
- Costs are based on WhatsApp’s pricing model for business messaging. Although, many platforms like WhatsApp Now you can get pay as you go WhatsApp marketing pricing
- WhatsApp Opt-in Broadcasts (Compliance-Based Messaging)
WhatsApp enforces strict rules for business messaging through the WhatsApp Business API. This is across geographies like for WhatsApp marketing in India. Businesses must obtain explicit opt-in from customers before sending messages. This means that users must agree to receive promotional or transactional messages.
Use Cases:
- Sending personalized offers based on customer preferences
- Notifying customers about policy updates or changes in service
- Providing event reminders and exclusive promotions
Why Opt-in Is Important?
- Ensures compliance with WhatsApp’s policies
- Reduces spam complaints
- Improves customer engagement
Businesses can collect opt-ins via website forms, QR codes, in-store signage, social media campaigns etc.
- WhatsApp Broadcasts with Interactive Messages (Buttons & Quick Replies)
A more advanced form of WhatsApp broadcast includes interactive messages. These messages allow businesses to engage users with quick reply buttons and call-to-action (CTA) buttons.
Types of Interactive Messages:
- Quick Reply Buttons – Users can tap on predefined responses instead of typing a reply
- Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons – These can include links, phone numbers, or website redirections
Use Cases:
- Conducting customer surveys with quick replies
- Providing chatbot-based support via WhatsApp
- Driving traffic to e-commerce websites with CTA buttons
Why Use Interactive Messages?
- Improves engagement rates
- Enhances user experience with easy responses
- Saves time by streamlining customer interactions
Choosing the Right WhatsApp Broadcast for Your Business
Best Practices for WhatsApp Broadcasts
To ensure high engagement and compliance, businesses should follow these best practices: Numbered list
- Get Customer Opt-in – Always ask for customer consent before sending messages.
- Segment Your Audience – Avoid sending generic messages; personalize them for better engagement.
- Use Clear CTAs – Guide recipients on what to do next (e.g., "Shop Now," "Reply YES").
- Track Engagement Metrics – Monitor open rates, response rates, and conversions to optimize broadcasts.
- Avoid Spamming – Sending too many messages can lead to customers blocking your number.
Conclusion
WhatsApp broadcasts provide businesses with a powerful tool to engage customers, send updates, and drive sales. Whether using personal broadcasts, the WhatsApp Business App, or WhatsApp Business API, each type of broadcast serves a specific purpose.
For small businesses, WhatsApp Business Broadcasts offer a simple way to communicate with customers. However, for large-scale marketing, the WhatsApp Business API is the best option, allowing unlimited messaging, automation, and CRM integration.
By choosing the right type of WhatsApp broadcast and following best practices, businesses can maximize engagement, improve customer relationships, and drive business growth.
WhatsApp Broadcasts with Message Central
Message Central is a CPaaS solution with WhatsApp Now, a WhatsApp marketing platform. Using the platform, you can: -Numbered list
- Get started in less than 10 minutes
- Pay as you go without any subscription cost
- Get 24/7 customer support
You can signup for free to get started.
