How to set up the WhatsApp Business API

To use the WhatsApp Business API you need a Meta Business account, a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA), a dedicated phone number, and at least one approved message template. Here is the path from zero to your first message.

1. Set up your business on Meta

Create or use an existing Meta Business account and complete business verification. This is what lets you raise messaging limits and unlock features over time.

2. Create a WhatsApp Business Account and add a number

Add a phone number that is not already active on the WhatsApp consumer app. You’ll verify it and give it a display name. In VoiceStream, each tenant connects their own WABA and Phone Number ID — you keep ownership of your number.

3. Create message templates

Business-initiated messages (outside the 24-hour window) must use templates approved by Meta. Submit templates for things like order updates, reminders and confirmations. VoiceStream’s Template Manager lets you submit, edit and delete templates from the UI.

4. Connect, test and go live

Point your webhook at VoiceStream (verified with HMAC SHA-256), send a test message, and you’re live — with a shared multi-agent inbox, campaigns, and WhatsApp Business Calling routed into your IVR, queues or AI bot.