How to Upgrade to WhatsApp API Without Losing Voice Calling

Using messaging for sales and marketing is powerful. It provides a direct line to leads and customers through instant communication on channels like WhatsApp. But what about voice calling? It’s been a reliable cornerstone for decades, offering a personal touch that messages alone can’t quite replicate.

If your business is already using WhatsApp and wants to find out how to upgrade to WhatsApp API without losing voice calling, this article is for you!

Upgrade to WhatsApp API Without Losing Voice Calling: Why Voice Is a Necessity

Messaging has never been more prevalent than it is today. With emojis, memes, GIFs and endless texts, it might seem like voice calling is fading from relevance. But nothing could be further from the truth.

Here’s why voice calling is still holding its ground:

Builds Trust and Adds Personalization

You just can’t beat an authentic human voice when establishing rapport with a lead or customer. It’s reassuring and adds a personal touch to the conversation, making the listener understand that they’re actually talking to a real person, not another faceless chatbot.

Just think about it. If you were a customer or lead, would you rather resolve complex issues or share your sensitive information (e.g., bank details) via a chat or over a phone call? We’re not saying voice is better than chat, but when used together, it can bridge the gap between impersonal messaging and genuine human interaction.

Reduces Miscommunication

Text-based messages are a breeding ground for miscommunication. How many times have you sent a genuine smiley face only for it to be interpreted sarcastically? With voice calling, you can cut through the ambiguity. Tone, inflections and instant back-and-forths all come together to provide clarity that texts lack.

While chat works well for quick updates or simple questions, voice calling provides the nuance needed for complex scenarios and is something especially important if you operate in mission-critical sectors like healthcare, finance or law.

Resolves Complex Issues Quickly

Time is money, therefore wasted time is wasted money. Imagine trying to explain the full value of an intricate product or service to a potential customer over chat. Tricky, right?

Now, we’re not saying you can’t do this over chat, but when it comes to sales, voice calling can just about give you that edge for complex issues. Voice calls let you explain the finer details, tackle objections in real time and build trust with a human connection.

Helps You Stand Out

So many businesses nowadays seem to be doubling down on chat, chatbots and automated responses, so it’s probably a good idea for you to do so, too. But then, when everyone seems to be doing the same thing, how do you differentiate yourself?

Simple. You use voice calling. When combined with chat, your messaging strategy becomes all the more versatile and can appeal to a much wider audience, letting you tap into that previously untapped segment of the market.

Difficulties When Upgrading WhatsApp API Without Losing Voice Calling

Now that you know the whys behind using voice calling, you might be wondering about the hows. Unfortunately, when upgrading the WhatsApp API, integrating voice capabilities isn’t so easy.

Here’s why it’s a tricky process:

Limited Voice Support in API Transitions

WhatsApp API upgrades often focus on improving messaging capabilities, overlooking voice features. This oversight can potentially create temporary service gaps that disrupt workflows, frustrate businesses and diminish the reliability customers expect from your communication channels.

Technical Complexity of Combining Voice and Messaging

In WhatsApp's architecture, voice and messaging services run on separate systems, and combining them when upgrading to WhatsApp Business API requires careful coordination.

WhatsApp uses WebRTC for real-time communication, but challenges like minimizing latency and integrating with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems can crop up along the way.

Regulatory and Compliance Hurdles

WhatsApp strictly mandates user permissions for business-initiated sales calls, and every API update requires meticulous compliance checks, including adherence to relevant regulations such as the GDPR. Miss something, and you’re staring at potential legal troubles!

The Solution to Upgrade to WhatsApp API Without Losing Voice Calling: WhatsApp Business Calling API

So you’re left with two questions. One, how do you resolve all those issues and two, how to upgrade to WhatsApp API without losing voice calling?

Enter: WhatsApp Business Calling API.

What Is WhatsApp Business Calling API?

In a nutshell, WhatsApp Business Calling API merges messaging and voice calling into a single WhatsApp thread, so your team isn’t juggling external Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) tools and flipping between platforms.

And what about the headaches we’ve just mentioned that come with API upgrades?

Well, the API effectively eliminates them. By combining voice and messaging into one platform, you no longer have to worry about compatibility issues or juggling separate systems. With WhatsApp API calls, you can keep your workflows intact when upgrading to WhatsApp API.

How WhatsApp Business Calling API Works

Let’s now take a look at how it works and its key features:

• User- and Business-Initiated Calls: Whether a customer calls you or you reach out (with their permission), the API makes it easy. No more missed opportunities!

• Interactive Templates: Control the flow of communication with templates that align with your business hours or specific use cases.

• Deep Links: Make connecting with your business as easy as a single tap. Embed call links on your website, in your app, or even on QR codes for maximum accessibility.

• WebRTC Technology: Say goodbye to third-party VoIP tools. WhatsApp’s WebRTC integration delivers high-quality, real-time audio that you can rely on.

• Permission Flow: Build trust by keeping everything transparent. Customers must explicitly consent to business-initiated calls, ensuring they’re always in control.

Respond.io: Early Access Beta Provider of WhatsApp Business Calling API

If you’re excited about the WhatsApp Business Calling API but wondering how to access it, here’s the catch: just like WhatsApp API, the feature isn’t directly accessible without a Business Solution Provider (BSP) like respond.io.

As one of WhatsApp's approved beta partners, here's why you should use respond.io:

WhatsApp API Calls: Unifies Chat and Voice

Respond.io brings all your customer interactions— both chat and voice—under one roof. Not only does this include multiple channels beyond WhatsApp, but this means your team can manage conversations more effectively, offering a smooth experience for teams and your leads and customers.

WhatsApp API Calls: Easy Configuration

Setting up the WhatsApp Business Calling API with respond.io is straightforward. With their 24/5 hands-on customer support and wealth of in-depth guides, you can get started calling quickly without unnecessary complications.

WhatsApp API Calls: Early Access

As one of the only beta providers of WhatsApp calling API, respond.io gives you the unique opportunity to start voice calling as soon as the feature becomes available. This means you can stay ahead of your competition and start refining your approach while others play catch-up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly is the WhatsApp Business Calling API?

The WhatsApp Business Calling API allows businesses to integrate voice calls into their WhatsApp Business setup, providing a unified platform for both voice and messaging interactions. In other words, it’s the answer to how to upgrade to WhatsApp API without losing voice calling.

How can my business access the WhatsApp Business Calling API?

To access the API, partner with an early access provider like respond.io. They will guide you through the setup process and help you integrate the API into your existing systems.

Are there additional costs when using the WhatsApp Business Calling API?

WhatsApp plans to introduce competitive pricing during the beta phase. Costs will vary based on usage and region, so it’s best to consult your API provider for specific details.

Further Reading

If you found our article helpful, you should check out the following:

• Conversational Sales: A Quick Guide to Conversational Selling

• WhatsApp Sales: How to Sell on WhatsApp [Nov 2023]

• WhatsApp API Explained: Features, Benefits & Pricing