WhatsApp will be launching a brand new app, developed specifically with businesses in mind.
The Facebook (NASDAQ:FB)-owned platform is preparing to have separate WhatsApp accounts strictly for businesses. Businesses will be able to do all the things they used to do on the app, like communicate with customers directly, only now “business specific” accounts can be verified.
“While chatting with businesses, you can check your contact’s profile to see which type of account they’re using. A verified account has a green checkmark badge in its profile,” the company commented.
Through the use of verification, customers can confirm that the business they are interacting with is an authentic brand.
“A business account with a gray question mark badge in its profile means the account is using the WhatsApp Business app but hasn’t been confirmed nor verified by WhatsApp,” explained the company.
The Business app is currently being tested by a private group of testers and, once released, will be a standalone app.
There will be a few differences between WhatsApp Business and regular WhatsApp. For example, the logo will have a “B” inside the green conversation bubble instead of the phone symbol. Once downloaded, however, the app will look the same as its original predecessor (except for the fact that the title bar says WhatsApp Business).
Features of the app include auto responses, the ability to create a business profile, and chat migration and analytics.
“We also provide you with the tools you need to control your experience with businesses. You can block business accounts and report them as spam at any time, right within the chat,” explained the company.
Featured Image: twitter