Introduction to Coexistence
Coexistence (CoEx) is the ability to use the WhatsApp Business app and Cloud API simultaneously on the same phone number. With Coexistence, individual 1-to-1 conversations continue to flow through the app, while your integration leverages the Cloud API for automation, webhooks, and structured workflows. WhatsApp automatically keeps contacts and message history synchronized between the two environments.Why use Coexistence?
Coexistence is ideal for smooth migrations from one provider to another or for businesses that want to keep operators using the app while building parallel automations:- Migration without history loss: you don’t lose conversations, contacts, or context when you enable the Cloud API
- Synchronized contacts: names, phone numbers, and contact information remain consistent between the app and API
- Shared history: previous messages will be available on both platforms
- Gradual transition: adapt your processes to the Cloud API at your own pace
Eligibility
To use Coexistence, you must meet the following requirements:If you have questions about your partner status or eligibility, consult the official Meta onboarding guide.
Important limitations
Coexistence flow
The Coexistence activation process follows these steps:- Embedded Signup: the customer accesses Coexistence within the WhatsApp Business app
- Contact synchronization: importing contacts stored in the app to the cloud
- History synchronization: importing previous conversations in phases (up to 180 days)
- Message mirroring: messages sent via the app are replicated to the Cloud API (via
smb_message_echoes) - Normal operation: both platforms work in parallel