Meta Launches 'Meta Verified' and Custom Messages on WhatsApp
Meta has introduced new features on WhatsApp to support millions of small businesses across India ahead of the festive season. During its first ‘WhatsApp Business Summit’ in the country, the company announced that the ‘Meta Verified’ feature is now available to all eligible small businesses using the WhatsApp Business app.
The 'Meta Verified' subscription offers businesses a verified badge, impersonation protection, account support, and premium tools to enhance their brand presence online. This verified badge will also be displayed on WhatsApp Channels and Business pages, making it easier for businesses to share their credibility across social media and websites.
“WhatsApp’s ubiquity and ease place it at the centre of India’s transformation, empowering businesses to grow with innovative ideas and new models”, said Sandhya Devanathan, VP, Meta India.
In addition to ‘Meta Verified,’ Meta is rolling out a feature that allows businesses using the WhatsApp Business app to send customised messages to customers. This includes appointment reminders, birthday greetings, or notifications about holiday sales, which can be sent more efficiently. The feature, available for a fee, will allow businesses to personalise messages with the customer’s name, customisable call-to-action buttons, and schedule the timing of the messages.
Meta also announced the upcoming launch of ‘WhatsApp Business Yatra', a first-of-its-kind initiative in India. This program will provide in-person, on-ground training to small businesses in tier 2 and 3 cities, further supporting their digital growth.
Currently, 60 percent of WhatsApp users interact with businesses every week, while 92 percent of users engage with businesses through messaging apps, highlighting the growing significance of these tools for customer communication.
