Use WhatsApp Business App and API on the same number

Not natively. Traditionally, Meta does not allow the WhatsApp Business App and API to be used simultaneously on the same number. Once you register a number on the API, it becomes inactive on the app.

However, solutions like respond.io now enable WhatsApp coexistence, allowing you to keep using both through a single, verified number. Messages sent via the app appear in your team inbox as echo messages (read-only reflections) on platforms like respond.io.

Without a coexistence solution, switching your number to the WhatsApp API deactivates the app. The number can no longer be used for WhatsApp Business App unless you unregister it from the API. With a coexistence solution like respond.io, you can keep using the app for certain activities while managing chats via the API platform.

Some businesses may want to use both solutions at the same time to transition gradually from the Business App to the API, or to accommodate different user needs. WhatsApp Coexistence lets your team use both solutions without forcing a trade-off.

Many businesses start with the WhatsApp Business App as it's simple to use and ideal for solo users or small teams. But as your business grows, you’ll need automation, CRM integrations, or multi-agent workflows. That’s where the WhatsApp Business API comes in. Brands like Ferretería EPA and 800 Storage started with the app and upgraded to the API as they scaled.

With WhatsApp coexistence, you don’t have to choose. Run both in parallel — retaining the app’s simplicity for teams on the ground while unlocking the API’s advanced capabilities for scaling.

The WhatsApp Business App remains free. While WhatsApp API access is free, you need to pay for costs associated with your WhatsApp Business Solution Provider (BSP), such as subscription plans.

Meta charges you for calls and message templates with rates varying by factors such as location, message type and more.

Unlike many BSPs, respond.io does not charge any WhatsApp setup fees, maintenance fees or message markups. Get an estimate of your WhatsApp costs with our WhatsApp pricing calculator.

No, Meta itself doesn’t officially document coexistence as a native feature. Coexistence solutions are created by Business Solution Providers (BSPs), such as respond.io, which build systems that bridge app activity and API platforms for seamless transitions.

Messages sent from the WhatsApp Business App will appear on respond.io as echo messages. They give you visibility into team conversations and allow you to sync contact data or follow up via automation.

Echo messages:

• Will create a contact if one doesn’t exist
• Will not open a WhatsApp API customer service window
• Will not trigger any automation
• Will not start a new conversation with a contact

No. As long as you’re working with an official BSP and following Meta’s policies, you should be able to use WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp API on the same number without getting banned. Coexistence solutions are engineered to comply with WhatsApp’s technical requirements and avoid policy violations. Running “hacks” or unauthorized tools is not recommended.

Yes, respond.io supports making and receiving calls via WhatsApp Business Calling API on desktop and the respond.io mobile app. However, if you’re using WhatsApp Business API together with the WhatsApp Business App on the same number (coexistence setup), voice calls are only available through the WhatsApp Business App, not via the API.