A Guide to Understanding WhatsApp Business Premium

A Guide to Understanding WhatsApp Business Premium

24 June 2024

As your business grows, so do its communication needs. While the WhatsApp Business app is a great starting point, you might find it increasingly insufficient as your customer base expands.

Enter WhatsApp Business Premium—a subscription service that bridges the gap between the free app and the advanced WhatsApp Business API. In this article, we explore the features and benefits of WhatsApp Business Premium, its suitability for small businesses, and how it compares to other WhatsApp solutions. Whether you’re considering a minor upgrade or planning to scale significantly, understanding these options can help you make the best choice for your business.

Outgrowing WhatsApp Business App?

If the WhatsApp Business app no longer meets your expanding needs, consider upgrading to the WhatsApp Business API.

If your business has fewer than 256 contacts, a minor upgrade to WhatsApp Business Premium might suffice. WhatsApp Business Premium offers enhanced functionality, serving as a stepping stone to more advanced features unavailable on the free app.

Introducing WhatsApp Business Premium

WhatsApp Business Premium is a subscription service introduced in May 2022 and rolled out later that year. This paid service adds extra features to the free WhatsApp Business app; for example, subscribers gain access to a custom WhatsApp web page and can add multiple users.

Who Uses It?

Small businesses, especially eCommerce stores, benefit from WhatsApp Business Premium’s enhanced capabilities, which help streamline operations and attract more customers. To check availability, go to Settings in your WhatsApp Business app.

Payment for WhatsApp Business Premium

Payment is made monthly through the Google Play Store. Manage and cancel your subscription through the app.

Premium Features

1. Add Up to 10 Desktop Users

Unlike the free app which limits to 4 devices, the Premium version allows 10 web-based devices plus 1 phone. This "multi-agent" feature aids in chat management, especially when there is high customer message volume.

2. Custom wa.me Link

Create a vanity URL with your company name (e.g., wa.me/YourBrand) for easy customer access. This link can be updated every 90 days.

3. Assign Agents

Chats can be assigned to agents, ensuring prompt and appropriate responses.

4. Track Message Sources

Identify which device or agent sent each message for better chat management and follow-ups.

5. Enhanced Web Page Details

Add comprehensive business information such as opening hours, address, website, and catalogue, improving online presence and searchability.

Availability and Costs

You can check out the official website and contact the sales team to learn more about the official pricing for WhatsApp Business Premium. You can also check the app for exact costs and subscription options.

Subscription Process

Subscribing is simple:

  • Open WhatsApp Business app.
  • Go to Settings > Premium.
  • Select Subscribe or Start Free Trial.
  • Comparison: WhatsApp Premium vs. WhatsApp Business

    WhatsApp Premium offers:

  • A business web page that updates with your profile and catalogue changes.
  • Multi-agent support for up to 10 devices
  • Pros and Cons of WhatsApp Premium

    Pros:

  • Supports up to 10 devices; different agents can respond to customers swiftly.
  • Allows creation of a customisable business web page and custom URL.
  • Easy to set up.


  • Cons:

  • Limited to 10 users and not available everywhere.
  • Lacks analytics and collaboration tools.
  • Limited automation capabilities.
  • When to Consider WhatsApp Business API

    Businesses with more customers should consider using WhatsApp Business API instead.

    The API offers:

  • Unlimited users and devices.
  • Enhanced collaboration options.
  • Comprehensive analytics.
  • Automated workflows and chatbots.
  • Broadcast messages to up to 800 customers daily.
  • Conclusion

    WhatsApp Business Premium offers a valuable upgrade for small businesses looking to enhance their communication capabilities without fully committing to the extensive WhatsApp Business API. With features like multi-device support, custom wa.me links, and detailed business web pages, it provides a significant step up from the free WhatsApp Business app. However, for businesses with larger customer bases or more complex needs, the WhatsApp Business API remains the ultimate tool, offering unparalleled functionality and scalability.

    Moobicast is your trusted WhatsApp business partner offering WhatsApp and bulk SMS marketing services to businesses and organisations of all kinds. Reach out to us for more information.