> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.leadblanc.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# WhatsApp Cloud API

> Deploy your Leadblanc AI agent to official WhatsApp Business numbers.

Connect your Meta WhatsApp Business Cloud account to automatically respond to customer inquiries, capture qualified leads, send order updates, and dispatch broadcast campaigns directly on WhatsApp.

## Prerequisites

* A registered **Meta for Developers** business account.
* A dedicated phone number not currently linked to personal WhatsApp or the WhatsApp Business mobile app.
* An approved WhatsApp Business Profile.

***

## Connection Steps

**1. Open WhatsApp Settings**

In your dashboard, navigate to **Channels > WhatsApp**.

**2. Connect Meta Business Account**

Click **Connect with Facebook**. A secure Meta OAuth window will open requesting permissions for `whatsapp_business_messaging` and `whatsapp_business_management`.

**3. Select Phone Number & Verify Webhook**

Select your verified business phone number. Leadblanc automatically configures the webhook handshake and cryptographic signature verification with Meta.

***

## 24-Hour Messaging Window & Templates

WhatsApp imposes a standard 24-hour customer service window:

1. **User-Initiated Inquiries**: When a customer messages your number, the 24-hour window opens. The Leadblanc agent can respond with free-form text, product cards, images, and quick-reply buttons.
2. **Business-Initiated Outreach (Outbound)**: To message customers outside the 24-hour window or send marketing broadcasts, you must use **Pre-approved WhatsApp Message Templates** managed in **Outbound > Templates**.

> [!WARNING]
>
> Never send spam or unsolicited promotional blasts. Ensure all recipients have explicitly opted in to receive WhatsApp communications per Meta's Commerce Policy.


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