A new version of WhatsApp has hit the Google Play Store in
selected markets. Aptly named WhatsApp Business, the app is
purpose-built for helping small business communicate with their
customers via the Facebook-owned messaging service.
As of today, small business owners in the US, UK, Italy,
Indonesia, and Mexico can take the app for a spin by downloading the app
and registering a new business account. This can later become a
Confirmed Account – like those launched last year – once WhatsApp checks the phone number details match your business.
As well as profile space for details like a company email, address,
website, and a general business description, the app also includes
“smart messaging” tools such as automated replies to frequently asked
questions, greeting messages, and customizable away messages during
non-work hours.
In addition, WhatsApp Business provides simple analytics so business owners know which messages are the most effective. It’s also compatible with WhatsApp Web, so you can check your messages and respond via a desktop browser.
Android Police
also note that users have the option of registering a landline number.
This differs greatly from the regular app which restricts accounts to a
mobile number.
The business-focused account doesn’t interfere with the regular
WhatsApp experience either, as users can happily use both apps on the
same device. You can try the app for yourself – as long as you’re in one
of the five selected countries – by clicking the Play Store button
below.
For everyone else, WhatsApp noted in a blog post that the app
will roll out around the world “in the coming weeks”. Considering the
same blog post notes that “over 80% of small businesses in India and
Brazil” use WhatsApp for business purposes, it’s safe to expect those
two countries will be next in the pipeline.
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