You can now connect SyncMate to Meta’s official WhatsApp Cloud API, in addition to the quick QR-code connection. Setup takes five steps inside SyncMate, and you don’t need to write any code or touch a developer dashboard.
Everything you already automate with SyncMate works on the new connection: HubSpot, Shopify, Zapier, Make, N8N, broadcasts and live chat. What changes is the line underneath. Messages now go through Meta’s own infrastructure, with official message templates and a phone number that doesn’t depend on a phone staying online.
This post explains what the Cloud API is, how it compares with a QR connection, and how to switch.
What is the Meta WhatsApp Cloud API?
The WhatsApp Cloud API is Meta’s official way for businesses to send and receive WhatsApp messages from software. Meta hosts it, so your number keeps working whether or not a phone is switched on or online.
Three rules shape how it works:
- Templates for the first message. To message someone who hasn’t written to you in the last 24 hours, you use a message template that Meta has approved.
- A 24-hour window for replies. When a customer messages you, you can reply freely for 24 hours.
- Per-message pricing. Since 1 July 2025, Meta charges per template message (marketing, utility, authentication). Replies inside the 24-hour window are free, and so are utility templates sent inside it. Rates vary by country: see Meta’s pricing page.
QR connection vs Meta Cloud API: which should you use?
Use the Meta Cloud API if WhatsApp is a core channel for your business or you send messages at volume. Use the QR connection to test quickly or for low-volume, one-to-one messaging.
| QR connection | Meta WhatsApp Cloud API | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Scan a QR code | 5-step Meta signup inside SyncMate |
| Who runs it | Linked to a phone session | Hosted by Meta |
| Phone must stay online | Yes | No |
| First message to a contact | Free text | Meta-approved template |
| Meta fees | None | Per template message (see Meta’s pricing page) |
| Sending at volume | Higher risk of the number being restricted | Built for it, within Meta’s messaging limits |
| Verified business badge | No | You can apply through Meta |
| Keep using the WhatsApp Business app | Yes | Yes, with co-existence |
You can switch between the two in SyncMate’s WhatsApp Manager, so you can start with QR today and move to the Cloud API when you’re ready.
What you need before you connect
- Admin access to your company’s Facebook Business Manager (Meta Business portfolio). If you don’t have one yet, Meta’s help center explains how to create it.
- A business phone number that can receive an SMS or a voice call, for the one-time verification code.
- Your business details: profile name, display name, time zone, currency and business category.
Already using this number in the WhatsApp Business app? You don’t have to delete it. With co-existence, you can connect the same number and keep using the app.
How to connect Meta WhatsApp Cloud API with SyncMate
- Open WhatsApp Manager. In your SyncMate dashboard, go to Connections → WhatsApp Manager and set the connection mode to Meta.
- Start the Meta signup. Click Connect with Meta Cloud API and log in with Facebook in the popup.
- Choose your business. Pick your Facebook Business Manager account, then fill in your WhatsApp Business profile: name, display name, time zone, currency and category.
- Verify your number. Enter your business number with its country code, choose SMS or voice call, and type in the 6-digit code from Meta.
- Finish. Click Finish. SyncMate links your WhatsApp Business Account ID, Phone Number ID and webhook automatically.
That’s it: your number now sends through the official Cloud API. Screenshots of every step are in the full user guide.
What you can automate on the Cloud API
Every SyncMate integration runs on the new connection, so you can move your existing automations over without rebuilding them.
| Integration | Example automation | |
|---|---|---|
| HubSpot | Send a WhatsApp message the moment someone submits your landing-page form | |
| Shopify | Order confirmed, shipped and cancelled updates, plus abandoned cart reminders | |
| Zapier | Ask clients for a review on WhatsApp after their appointment | |
| Make | Reply to every new lead on WhatsApp within seconds | |
| N8N | Send feedback requests from a Google Sheet |
On the Cloud API, the first message in each of these is a Meta-approved template. Set your templates up once and reuse them across automations.
FAQ
Is the WhatsApp Cloud API the same as the WhatsApp Business API?
Yes. The Cloud API is the version of the WhatsApp Business API that Meta hosts itself. It’s the official route for businesses to connect WhatsApp to software.
Do I need a developer to set it up?
No. SyncMate uses Meta’s embedded signup, so you connect from a popup inside SyncMate. SyncMate then links your account, phone number and webhook for you.
Can I keep using WhatsApp on my phone?
Yes. With co-existence you can connect the number you already use in the WhatsApp Business app and keep using the app.
Does Meta charge for messages?
Meta charges per template message, and rates depend on the category and country. Replies within 24 hours of a customer’s message are free. Check Meta’s pricing page for current rates.
Will I get the green tick?
The verified badge isn’t automatic. Once you’re on the Cloud API, you can apply for it through Meta.
Can I go back to the QR connection?
Yes. You can switch connection mode in SyncMate’s WhatsApp Manager at any time.
Connect your number today
Already a SyncMate user? Open WhatsApp Manager, choose Meta, and follow the step-by-step guide. New to SyncMate? Start your free trial and pick the integration you use.
Questions about moving from QR to the Cloud API? Contact our team and we’ll help you switch.