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Using WhatsApp Business API with the WhatsApp Business App (Coexistence)

Learn what WhatsApp Business API Coexistence is, how to identify coexistence channels in 2Chat, and what limitations apply.

WhatsApp Coexistence is a Meta feature that allows a business to use the same phone number simultaneously in two channels: the WhatsApp Business App (mobile or desktop) and the WhatsApp Business API (WABA) via 2Chat. Messages sent from either channel are synchronized, so your team can work in 2Chat while the business app remains active on the same number.

How it works

Coexistence is activated through Meta's Embedded Signup flow. During the connection process, Meta connects your number to the WhatsApp Cloud API while keeping the WhatsApp Business App active on your phone. Your message history is preserved, and you can continue using the app and 2Chat at the same time. The channel will appear as Connected in 2Chat immediately, without requiring manual verification.

How to connect your number

  1. Go to Channels in the main menu and click Add channel → WhatsApp.

  2. When the wizard asks "Do you already use WhatsApp Business on your phone?", select Yes.

  3. Click Continue to Meta. The Meta Embedded Signup window will open.

  4. Log in with your Meta Business account and select the number you want to connect.

  5. Complete the flow. Your channel will appear as Connected in 2Chat automatically.

What to keep in mind

You must open the WhatsApp Business App on your phone at least once every 13 days to keep the coexistence connection active. If you don't, Meta will disconnect the number from the API. Opening the app again will restore it.

Message template limits

  • Without Meta Business verification: up to 250 templates and 250 messages/day

  • With Meta Business verification: up to 6,000 templates

How to identify a coexistence channel

Coexistence channels are labeled in the 2Chat channel list. If your channel was connected while the WhatsApp Business App was still active on the same number, it is operating in coexistence mode.

Limitations

WhatsApp calls are not supported on coexistence channels. In coexistence mode, your number is connected to the Cloud API while the WhatsApp Business App remains active — this is a shared connection. Calls require your number to be exclusively on the Cloud API. To enable calling, you would need to remove the number from the WhatsApp Business App and reconnect it in 2Chat as a standard (non-coexistence) channel. This is a separate, manual process.

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to support.

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