Indian users can send meta verified and customized messages through WhatsApp Business

Meta has rolled out an array of new features and initiatives for the WhatsApp Business app in India, with the goal of improving how businesses interact with their customers through the widely used messaging platform. This announcement was made at Meta’s first-ever WhatsApp Business Summit in India, which took place on Thursday (Sept. 12), as shared in a press release from the company.

“These newly introduced features and programs demonstrate our ongoing commitment to helping businesses create exceptional customer experiences while optimizing their return on investment through WhatsApp,” explained Sandhya Devanathan, Meta’s vice president for India.

One of the standout updates is the extension of the Meta Verified program to small businesses across India that are using the WhatsApp Business app. Through Meta Verified, businesses gain access to a verified badge that assures their authenticity, as well as protection from impersonation, enhanced customer support, and premium tools to help them strengthen their brand and improve communication with their customer base.

In addition to this, Meta has introduced a new feature that allows small businesses to craft customized messages for their clients and schedule their delivery. This feature can be used to send timely updates such as appointment reminders, birthday greetings, or notifications about upcoming holiday sales, making it easier for businesses to maintain customer engagement without manual intervention.

Moreover, Meta is launching a comprehensive training program aimed at helping small businesses in India make the most out of the WhatsApp Business app. Both in-person and online options for the training are planned. In-person sessions will take place in various cities across the country, guiding small business owners on how to efficiently set up their WhatsApp Business accounts, build product catalogs, and run click-to-WhatsApp ads that can drive customer engagement. For those preferring online resources, Meta has also introduced a resource center on its website where businesses can access training and tutorials.

Devanathan further emphasized the role of WhatsApp in India’s evolving business landscape, stating, “The ease of use and ubiquity of WhatsApp positions it as a central player in India’s transformation, driving innovative business ideas and new growth models.”

India, which boasts a population of over 1 billion, is home to more than 500 million active WhatsApp users, according to a PYMNTS report from September 2023. This vast user base presents a significant opportunity for businesses to leverage the platform to reach large audiences, making WhatsApp an essential tool for companies looking to scale and innovate in the Indian market.

By introducing these new features and training initiatives, Meta continues to underscore its commitment to empowering small businesses and enhancing the overall user experience on WhatsApp, helping businesses to streamline operations, foster customer loyalty, and maximize their growth potential.