WhatsApp Web: The good, the bad and the alternatives
Unless you have been living under a rock for the past 7 years, chances are you have heard of, or used, the web based version of WhatsApp, aptly called WhatsApp Web. But just in case you really have been living under a rock, we will take a quick look at what WhatsApp Web is, the benefits it offers, the limitations it imposes and also look at some alternatives to WhatsApp Web.
Let’s get started.
What is WhatsApp Web?
WhatsApp Web is basically a web-based version of the popular WhatsApp messaging app. It was first introduced in January 2015 as a way for users to access their WhatsApp messages and conversations on their desktop or laptop computers, rather than just on their mobile devices. To use WhatsApp Web, all one had to do was to go to the WhatsApp website, scan a QR code with your phone, and voila! You’ll be able to access your messages and chats right from your computer.
The Benefits of Using WhatsApp Web
There are several benefits to using WhatsApp Web. Firstly, it allows you to stay connected with your friends, family, and colleagues even when you’re working on your computer. You no longer have to switch back and forth between your phone and computer to check your messages. Time saver!
Secondly, WhatsApp Web offers a larger screen for you to view and respond to messages, making it easier to read and reply to longer messages. Let’s not forget you get to use the full computer keyboard to type out your responses quickly and efficiently, as opposed to having to use the smaller keyboard on your phone.
Thirdly, WhatsApp Web also offers the ability to send and receive files, photos, and videos right from your computer. This is especially helpful if you need to share large files or photos that are not saved on your phone. If you regularly share your work files over WhatsApp then WhatsApp Web fits well into your workflow.
The Limitations of WhatsApp Web
While there are many benefits to using WhatsApp Web, there are a few limitations and drawbacks to keep in mind. It’s not all peaches and cream.
Firstly, you need to have your phone nearby and connected to the internet to use WhatsApp Web. If you’re somewhere without internet access or your phone battery dies, you won’t be able to use WhatsApp Web. This is changing though — WhatsApp has recently introduced a way for you to use WhatsApp on up to 4 devices simultaneously — without the other always being online. This feature is still rolling out to users all over the world.
Secondly, WhatsApp Web is not as secure as the mobile app. While WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption to protect your messages, using WhatsApp Web on a public or shared computer could put your messages at risk. Also, computers are generally bigger targets for malware, spyware and other such harmful tools as compared to closed phone ecosystems such as Apple, to some extent Android as well.
Lastly, while it provides a rich computer based experience, like its phone counterpart, the WhatsApp Web platform isn’t really multi-user. So if you are looking to use WhatsApp web for your business and want to share conversations between team members or provide a customer service experience — you are out of luck.
The Alternatives to WhatsApp Web
If you’re looking for an alternative to WhatsApp Web though, there’s some good news. With the introduction of the WhatsApp API, new systems have popped up that combine the power of WhatsApp with handy business tools that let you overcome many of the limitations of WhatsApp. There are several platforms that integrate with the WhatsApp API, Moja and Intercom are two popular options that allow businesses to connect with their customers through WhatsApp. These platforms offer features like automated messaging, customer segmentation, and analytics to help businesses manage their WhatsApp conversations more effectively.
Platforms like Moja and Intercom, and others, are almost always offered as a subscription offering. They pack productivity tools, customer service tools and other CRM based functionality that turn a simple WhatsApp based conversation with a customer into a power packed engagement platform.
If you have recently interacted with a WhatsApp number for a large airline, or a telecoms provider, chances are that was through one such system that leverages the WhatsApp API, with a team of customer service agents all working on the same number and app (sorry to burst the bubble if you though it was one person dedicated to attending chats on WhatsApp).
Closing thoughts
WhatsApp Web is a great tool for staying connected with your contacts and customers while working on your computer. While it does have some limitations and drawbacks, it offers many advantages and benefits that make it a worthwhile tool to use. And if you’re looking for something more robust to integrate it better into your business operations, then platforms like Intercom and Moja can provide additional features and functionality to help you manage your WhatsApp conversations more effectively.
