There are currently three WhatsApp integrations available in RO App. Let's take a look at how they differ and what features each one offers.
Integration for client notifications
Basic WhatsApp integration is a free tool for sending notifications. To use it, you need to have WhatsApp installed on your computer.
This integration is one-way: you can send a message to a client using a notification template or edit it before sending. After that, the WhatsApp app opens on your computer, and the message is sent directly from there. You can then continue the conversation in the WhatsApp app itself.
Important:
the client cannot reply to you through the system, only in the WhatsApp application;
the history of further correspondence is not stored inRO App — it also remains only in WhatsApp.
Integrations for chatting with clients
Integrations with WhatsApp by Twilio and E-chat allow to have full-fledged two-way chats with clients. They are paid, but offer significantly broader capabilities.
How it works:
the client texts the number connected in the integration;
messages automatically appear in the “Chats” section in RO App;
the entire correspondence history is stored in the system;
you can initiate a dialogue yourself;
communication takes place in two-way mode directly in the system.
Additional features:
AI transcription of voice messages;
display of contact information in the chat;
ability to create documents (orders, bookings, inquiries, etc.) directly from the chat;
use of templates during communication, not just for initiating the first message;
chat tags for convenient work.
🔎 Everything about how chats work.
Simply put: basic integration only allows you to send the first message to the client. Integrations via Twilio or E-chat provide full two-way communication within the system.
How WhatsApp by Twilio and by E-chat differ
The general logic of operation is the same for both channels, but there are some differences.
WhatsApp by Twilio | WhatsApp by E-chat |
A paid account is required for connection + fees for messages depending on rates and country. | The account is free, with a monthly fee for the number. |
You can use your personal/work number or purchase a Twilio number. | Only works with a personal/work number. |
Uses a business account that can only be used within the integration — it cannot be simultaneously used on your phone. | The connected number can be used on your phone as well as in the RO App integration. |
Longer connection process. | Fast connection process |
There are WhatsApp message templates in addition to saved replies in RO App. | Only saved messages in RO App can be used. |
Messages in WhatsApp after 24 hours from the last one are sent only using a template. | No time limits on messages to clients |
You can initiate new chats with contacts. | You cannot initiate new chats with contacts. |
Restrictions on sending files in chat:
Restrictions on receiving: files no larger than 16 MB | Restrictions on sending: files, images, and videos — up to 100 MB Restrictions on receiving: also up to 100 MB |