Let's dive into a step-by-step guide on how to smoothly connect WhatsApp Cloud API with Baat.ai:
Step 1: Set Up Your Facebook Account
Begin by ensuring you have an active Facebook account. If not, the process of registering is straightforward. Simply input your login credentials, followed by email confirmation.
Step 2: Enhance Security with 2FA
Prioritize the security of your Facebook account by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) here - https://www.facebook.com/settings?tab=security . This ensures an added layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Step 3: Register as a Developer
Register as a developer. Create a Meta for Developers account here - https://developers.facebook.com/async/registration/, and undergo the verification process via SMS or email.
Review your email address, and continue and then Opt for the "Developer" role as you set up your account.
After Opting Click on "Complete registration".
Step 4: Initiating Your Facebook App
Create Facebook app. Select the app type as "Business". This choice, however, is irreversible post-creation. Proceed by furnishing fundamental details such as the app name and contact email.
Step 5: The Meta Business Account
Create a Meta business account if it doesn't already exist. If it does, you have the option to select an existing one or create a new account.
Step6: Configure WhatsApp Number
In the left menu bar, navigate to "Getting Started". Here, you'll be able to add a phone number to your business account. Keep in mind that the verification of the phone number is a crucial step in this process. Facebook scrutinises the provided URL; any discrepancies can result in not just the business but the associated number getting blocked. If you're without a business website, fear not; you can use a URL from your social media profile page.
Step 7: Obtain the Access Token
The access token is the final piece required to complete the channel connection puzzle. Access business.facebook.com/settings and choose the specific business under which your application was created. Subsequently, select "Users", followed by "System Users", and then click "Add". Set the user type as "Admin" (mandatory) and assign the name "Baat.ai". This facilitates easy identification of the system you're integrating with. With the click of the "Create system user" button, the user creation process is initiated.
Step 8: Generating the Token
The generation of a new token involves several steps. Click "Generate New Token" and opt for the previously created application. Specify permissions, particularly focusing on "whatsapp_business_messaging" and "whatsapp_business_management". Once these selections are made, hit "Generate Token". Voila! Your Access Token is now at your disposal.
Step 9: Integrating with Baat.ai
At this stage, you're primed to integrate WhatsApp Cloud API with Baat.ai. In your Baat.ai platform, navigate to "Manage" followed by "Channels". Look for WhatsApp Plus and proceed to "Connect" and "Subscribe Now". Choose your desired license period and complete the checkout process.
Step 9: Final Configuration
Upon successfully subscribing, you will need to enter specific data. This includes the Phone Number ID, WhatsApp Business Account ID, and the Access Token obtained earlier. Once these details are entered, click "Connect".
Step 10: Verification and Webhook Configuration
It's a good practice to verify the integration. Head to https://developers.facebook.com/apps/ and navigate to WhatsApp > Configuration > Configure a webhook. Here, enter the data provided by Baat.ai – URL and Verify Token – and click "Verify and save".
Congratulations, you've successfully integrated the WhatsApp Cloud API Channel with Baat.ai! Now, send your inaugural message to your business number to ensure all systems are functioning optimally.