The business version of WhatsApp has proven to be exceptionally useful for users across the board, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, there are still some updates that need to be made. Beta testers just got a taste of a new feature that will enable them to utilize marketing messages with all things having been considered and taken into account. This will go a long way towards helping them hold onto their customers.
With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that businesses will be able to schedule when these messages go out much more easily than might have been the case otherwise. As per Wabetainfo, they can set up a template that will customize each and every message wit the name of the customer in question. This will be extremely beneficial because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up convincing customers that they’re not just receiving stock messages but are rather being given importance within the context of your enterprise.
The most significant advantage of this feature is that businesses can reach out to customers with coupons and various other kinds of offers that they may want to avail. A previous update added a message to marketing communications that clarified how Meta might collect some data, and customers are notified that the messages are part of a wider marketing campaign. This next update, which is already available to Beta testers, is the logical next step in WhatsApp’s push to become a hub for all things related to business.
Business chats use greatly boosted end to end encryption as well, since the cloud providers are secured by Meta even if the businesses are using their own cloud services. Users are also given complete control over whether or not they want to receive marketing messages in the first place. That’s an essential feature since it not only allows users to avoid getting spam messages, but it also gives businesses that confidence they need to send out marketing messages without worrying about how they might annoy their customers.
It is expected that this feature will receive a wider rollout in the near future. Until then, Beta testers can get their hands on it by downloading the WhatsApp Beta on Android.
Read next: Meta and Google Set to Discontinue Unlimited Backup for WhatsApp
With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that businesses will be able to schedule when these messages go out much more easily than might have been the case otherwise. As per Wabetainfo, they can set up a template that will customize each and every message wit the name of the customer in question. This will be extremely beneficial because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up convincing customers that they’re not just receiving stock messages but are rather being given importance within the context of your enterprise.
The most significant advantage of this feature is that businesses can reach out to customers with coupons and various other kinds of offers that they may want to avail. A previous update added a message to marketing communications that clarified how Meta might collect some data, and customers are notified that the messages are part of a wider marketing campaign. This next update, which is already available to Beta testers, is the logical next step in WhatsApp’s push to become a hub for all things related to business.
Business chats use greatly boosted end to end encryption as well, since the cloud providers are secured by Meta even if the businesses are using their own cloud services. Users are also given complete control over whether or not they want to receive marketing messages in the first place. That’s an essential feature since it not only allows users to avoid getting spam messages, but it also gives businesses that confidence they need to send out marketing messages without worrying about how they might annoy their customers.
It is expected that this feature will receive a wider rollout in the near future. Until then, Beta testers can get their hands on it by downloading the WhatsApp Beta on Android.
FAQ on WhatsApp's New Marketing Messages Feature
1. What is the new Marketing Messages feature in WhatsApp?
This feature, available in the Business Tools tab for some beta testers, allows businesses to schedule and customize messages using templates. It includes the ability to analyze message performance to enhance customer interactions.
2. How can businesses benefit from this feature?
Businesses can reach more people with offers and announcements like coupons, sales, and promotions. It's especially useful for small businesses to extend their reach.
3. How do businesses pay for this feature?
There's a fee to access this feature, which varies by country. Businesses can manage costs effectively to stay within budget.
4. Is there any user privacy concern with Marketing Messages?
All messages in business chats are end-to-end encrypted. Limited information about interactions with marketing messages is shared with Meta to improve services and reduce spam, but personal details are not included.
5. Can users control their interactions with these business messages?
Yes, users have full control. They can report or block businesses and choose their level of engagement with these messages.
6. How is user privacy ensured in business interactions?
Besides end-to-end encryption, Meta provides additional security for business chats using cloud providers. More comprehensive details on privacy protections are available on the WhatsApp website.
7. Who can access the Marketing Messages feature currently?
It's available to some beta testers who install the latest WhatsApp Business beta updates from the Google Play Store, with a broader rollout planned in the coming weeks.
8. Can users opt out of receiving marketing messages?
Yes, engaging with these businesses is optional. Users can choose not to interact with marketing messages and block businesses if desired.
9. How does the scheduling and customization of messages work?
Businesses can set up templates to personalize messages with customer names and schedule when these messages are sent.
10. How does WhatsApp use the information from marketing message interactions?
The information is used to improve user experience, help businesses understand how to send less intrusive content, and reduce spam.
11. Is there a limit to the number of messages a business can send?
This is not explicitly mentioned, but businesses can manage the cost of each message to stay on budget, implying a flexible approach.
12. Will there be future updates or expansions of this feature?
While not specified, the ongoing rollout to more users suggests potential future updates and expansions.
Read next: Meta and Google Set to Discontinue Unlimited Backup for WhatsApp
