Understanding WhatsApp Message Templates: Definition, Types, and Best Practices

Understanding WhatsApp Message Templates: Definition, Types, and Best Practices

Definition of WhatsApp Message Templates

WhatsApp message templates are pre-approved, pre-defined messages that businesses can use to initiate conversations with customers. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including customer support, notifications, and promotional messages.

Conditions for Using WhatsApp Message Templates

  • WhatsApp message templates are not free and are charged based on the number of conversations and the template category.
  • Templates must be pre-approved by Facebook to ensure compliance with WhatsApp's business policies.
  • Templates can only be sent to customers outside the 24-hour customer service window to start a new conversation or for promotional purposes.

Types of Templates

  • Authentication Templates: Used to authenticate customers using passcodes during login or account recovery.
  • Service Templates: Used for transactional updates, post-purchase notifications, and recurring invoices.
  • Marketing Templates: Used to promote products or services, such as offering tailored discounts.

For more details, check the Template Guidelines.

Text Template Restrictions

  • Template Name: Must not exceed 512 characters and should use lowercase alphanumeric characters and underscores.
  • Main Text: Must not contain tabs, excessive spaces, or exceed 1024 characters.
  • Brand Placeholder: Enclosed within double curly braces, e.g., {{1}}.

Best Practices for Sending Templates

  • Obtain customer consent before sending message templates.
  • Ensure compliance with WhatsApp’s business messaging policies.
  • Avoid spamming or sending unsolicited messages.

Learn more from the Messaging Policy.

Common Reasons for Template Rejection

  • Missing or mismatched variable placeholders.
  • Content violating WhatsApp's policies.
  • Duplicate templates or use of inappropriate language.
  • Incorrect template category selection.

See more details on Common Rejection Reasons.

Error Codes When Sending Templates

  • 131026 or 131049: The number is not registered on WhatsApp.
  • 1026: The recipient has exceeded the marketing template limit.

Solution: Use a service template or wait 24 hours before resending the marketing template.

Supported Media Types

  • Audio and Video: Up to 16 MB.
  • Document: Up to 100 MB.
  • Image: Up to 5 MB.
  • Sticker: Up to 100 KB.

Learn more about Supported Media.

Template Editing Guidelines

FieldDescription
Profile PictureRecommended size: 640x640 pixels.
AboutMax 139 characters describing the business.
AddressMax 256 characters.
EmailValid email format, max 128 characters.



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