docs/agents/channels/whatsapp.mdx
Use WhatsApp Business as a messaging channel for your agent. Novu keeps session context, shows a typing indicator during the turn, and uses native quick-reply buttons for choices and tool approval.
| Capability | Support |
|---|---|
| Full context history | Yes |
| Threaded replies (within session window) | Yes |
| Live typing indicator | Yes (fixed text) |
| React with eyes on inbound messages | Yes |
| Plan card | No |
| Rich text | Bold / italics only |
| Tap-to-respond buttons | Yes (up to 3 per message) |
| Emoji reactions | Yes |
| Message edits in place | Yes |
| Action / MCP tool approval | Yes (quick-reply buttons) |
| MCP connect card | Yes (short authorize URL) |
| Resolve conversation | Yes |
| File sharing | Not yet |
| Streaming word-by-word | Not yet |
Full matrix: Channels overview.
A user messages the bot. Novu adds an eyes reaction, shows typing, then delivers a complete reply with up to three quick-reply buttons.
Gated tools use Approve / Deny quick replies. The handler resumes after the user taps a button.
| Framework / Platform | Guide |
|---|---|
| Custom code agent | Follow a connect guide, then add WhatsApp as another provider |
| Managed agent | Claude or AWS Claude, then link WhatsApp in the dashboard |
WhatsApp Business credentials are configured in the Novu dashboard when you add the provider.
@novu/react does not ship a WhatsApp connect button yet. Link WhatsApp Business in the Novu dashboard when you add the provider to the agent, or use the channel endpoints API if you need programmatic subscriber endpoints.
For Slack, Teams, and Telegram embeddable buttons, see Connect components.