Flow API or the official WhatsApp Business API?
They solve different problems. The official platform is built for large brands messaging at scale with templates and a verified badge. Flow API is built for automations and agencies that want to use an existing number with simple, flat pricing.
| Flow API | Official WhatsApp Business Platform | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Scan a QR code with your existing number | Meta Business account, app and phone number registration |
| Messages outside the 24-hour window | Free-form messages | Pre-approved templates only |
| Pricing | $10 per number per month, unlimited messages | Charged per delivered template message, by category and country (since July 1, 2025) |
| Replies inside the 24-hour window | Included | From October 1, 2026: first 1,000 service messages per number per month free, then charged |
| Verified business badge | No | Available |
| Affiliated with Meta | No | Yes |
Choose the official platform if
- You broadcast marketing to large lists of people who did not message you first
- You need a verified business badge or Meta's compliance guarantees
- Your legal team requires an official Meta product
Choose Flow API if
- You automate conversations with people who know you: clients, leads, patients
- You want flat, predictable pricing per number
- You work in Make, n8n, Zapier or with AI agents and want to start in minutes
Know the risk
Flow API connects as a linked device, like WhatsApp Web. WhatsApp can restrict numbers that send spam or bulk messages to strangers, and no unofficial API can prevent that.
Questions
Did WhatsApp Business Platform pricing change in 2026?
Yes. Since July 1, 2025 Meta charges per delivered template message. From October 1, 2026, service replies inside the 24-hour window are free only for the first 1,000 per business number each month, and utility templates inside the window are charged.
Sources: Meta: Pricing on the WhatsApp Business Platform · Pricing changes from October 1, 2026 (summary). Checked October 2026.
7 days free, no credit card. Then $10 per number per month.