WhatsApp Business Platform now available for applications built on Azure

We are excited to announce that Azure Communication Services Advanced Messaging is now generally available, enabling developers to send and receive messages from their applications through third party social messaging platforms, like the WhatsApp Business Platform. This latest messaging service helps businesses create intelligent B2C communication workflows to reach more customers at scale and deliver safe, reliable communications to customers worldwide.

“Azure Communication Services enables brands to reach more customers across devices and platforms. We are delighted to expand that reach to the WhatsApp Business Platform for Azure, where developers can build intelligent applications that improve customers’ interactions. Combined with services from Azure AI, we are transforming the landscape of communication and helping businesses meet the growing demands of their global customers.” -Bob Serr , VP of Engineering,  Azure Communication Services.

Build on your terms with Azure and effortlessly connect with WhatsApp users

As one of the most popular messaging apps, businesses can now communicate with WhatsApp users directly from their Azure applications, enabling efficient and effective communication with their target audiences that prefer effortless, personalized, and secure communications with their favorite brands. Developers can seamlessly connect applications and bots to interact with customers programmatically as well as benefit from the promises of building with Azure:

• Global reach: WhatsApp users span across 180 countries worldwide. Tap into this global audience with Advanced Messaging.
• Security: Advanced Messaging ensures safe, reliable delivery, maintaining the privacy and security of your communications.
• Scalability: No matter the volume of messages your business requires, Advanced Messaging scales effortlessly to meet your needs.

Incorporate WhatsApp into key customer service and communication scenarios

With Advanced Messaging from Azure Communication Services, developers can build conversational workflows for their key customer scenarios by communicating with users on WhatsApp who want simple, customized, and safe interactions with their preferred brands. For example, instantly send notifications and follow-ups for appointment reminders, transaction receipts, shipping updates, or one-time passcodes. Or provide real-time support to quickly resolve customer issues.

Build intelligent, multichannel communication workflows with Azure AI

The Azure OpenAI Service and Azure Communication Services Job Router can be used in combination with the WhatsApp Business Platform to analyze and route messages, delivering faster, personalized communication and streamlining customer service. See the latest code samples for how Azure AI and Azure Communication Services are reimagining customer support and business insights: Azure Communications Services and Azure Open AI Reimagine Customer Support and Business Insights - Microsoft Community Hub

In addition, developers can also build multichannel experiences with WhatsApp and other communication channels, such as SMS, email, chat, voice, and video, using Azure Communication Services.

Getting started:

Register your WhatsApp Business Platform account. QuickStart: Register a WhatsApp Business Account

Explore the technical documentation:

• Advanced Messaging overview : Understand the capabilities and features.
• QuickStart: Try Advanced Messaging Sandbox : Get hands-on experience in a sandbox environment.
• QuickStart: Send WhatsApp Messages : Learn how to send messages programmatically.