WhatsApp session messages are any messages exchanged within a 24-hour session window. However, WhatsApp sessions are not measured in fixed 24-hour blocks but instead start or refresh based on user replies.
How a WhatsApp Session Starts
- A 24-hour session starts when a user sends a message to a business.
- A business-initiated conversation begins when a business sends a template message, which is charged based on its category (Marketing, Utility, or Authentication).
- If the user replies to any message, a 24-hour service conversation begins, during which businesses can send free-form messages without incurring additional charges.
Conversation Charging Rules
- Each conversation is billed separately based on its category (Marketing, Utility, Authentication, or Service).
- Sending a template message, regardless of category, will initiate a new billable conversation, even within an existing session.
How the 24-hour Session Refreshes
- User replies at any time = Session refreshes for another 24 hours.
- If the user does not reply, the session expires after 24 hours, and the business must send a paid template to restart the conversation.
- If the user sends a new message after the session has expired, a new 24-hour session starts, allowing free-form messages again.
Types of WhatsApp Conversations
- User-Initiated Conversations (Service Conversations)
- Starts when a user messages a business.
- Allows free messaging for 24 hours.
- If the user replies within this session, the 24-hour window is refreshed.
- Business-Initiated Conversations
- Starts when a business sends a template message.
- Charged per template sent, categorized as Marketing, Utility, or Authentication.
- User reply converts it into a free 24-hour service conversation (except Marketing, which remains chargeable).