WhatsApp finally launches Business app for select markets

WhatsApp has launched a new service for small businesses called WhatsApp for Business aimed at making it easier for small companies to connect with their customers, and more convenient for the 1.3 billion WhatsApp users to chat with businesses that matter to them.

The WhatsApp Business app will allow companies to create their own profile with information like a description about the business, email or store address and website, among other things, similar to creating a page on Facebook. The app also provides smart messaging tools like quick replies, FAQs, greeting messages to introduce your business to customers and messages to let them know you’re busy. The is also analytics to help you understand which messages are working. Additionally, users will know they’re talking to a business as the company’s profile will be listed as a Business Account. WhatsApp will also verify some of these accounts over time.

"People can continue using WhatsApp as usual - there's no need to download anything new. And people will continue to have full control over the messages they receive, with the ability to block any number, including businesses, as well as report spam," WhatsApp says in a blog post.

The new app is now available to download via Google Play in Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, the UK, and the US. The app is free, and will be rolled out across the world in the coming weeks, which is when it can be expected in India.