Times Mobile https://timesmobile.in Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:57:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://timesmobile.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/wifi.png Times Mobile https://timesmobile.in 32 32 Reducing Customer Support Costs with AI Chatbots https://timesmobile.in/how-ai-chatbots-reduce-your-customer-support-costs/ https://timesmobile.in/how-ai-chatbots-reduce-your-customer-support-costs/#respond Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:24:10 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=23176 Did you know that by 2027,  AI chatbots will handle customer service for about 25% of all businesses? The global chatbot market is growing at a rate of 23.3% each year, and it’s only going to keep rising. So, what does this mean for your business? In short, chatbots are becoming essential for providing fast, cost-effective customer service. And if you’re not using them yet, you’re missing out.

At Times Mobile, we help businesses improve customer engagement through our AI-based chatbot that works across platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger and RCS. Our chatbot has been designed for efficiency, personalization so you can deliver outstanding customer service while cutting down on support costs. 

Why Your Business Needs an AI Chatbot

90% of customers expect an immediate response to their service inquiries. That means whether it’s a late-night question about a forgotten password, a weekend panic about a delayed delivery, or a morning rush before a big sales event, they want help now.

Traditional customer service methods just can’t keep up. Humans need breaks, shifts, and time to respond. But on the other hand, there are AI chatbots that work around the clock, handle multiple conversations at once, and never need to rest. They’re revolutionizing customer service by offering the kind of support that’s both affordable and always on.

Benefits of AI Chatbots for Your Business

1. Instant, Efficient Responses

AI chatbots provide instant, real-time responses with no human involvement. This speeds up response times and enables your customers to get help right away. Whether your customer is asking a simple question about product availability or whether they are dealing with a more serious inquiry, your chatbot can handle both the easy and difficult requests efficiently, resulting in a better experience while saving you time and money!

2. Always-On, 24/7 Availability

Chatbots do not have set hours and breaks like a human agent, meaning your customers will always receive a rapid response whenever they contact you, day or night. You also won’t have to worry about days when you miss inquiries from customers, such as on weekends and holidays, or after hours. Since a bot is answering their inquiry, no customer is left waiting.

3. Cost-Effective Customer Service

Human support agents can be expensive, especially when they do repetitive duties like answering frequently asked inquiries or providing basic support. AI chatbots can automate monotonous tasks. This means that the chatbot can replace a human agent for tasks like answering frequently asked inquiries, monitoring order statuses, and offering basic troubleshooting without requiring additional human resources. This results in lower staffing costs while still offering high-quality service.

4. Multilingual Support

One of the best things about AI chatbots is their ability to communicate in multiple languages. Language barriers can always be a problem when interacting with clients from around the world. The best thing about chatbots is that they can recognize language on their own and reply in the language that the user prefers. This increases your potential audience and makes your business more accessible without requiring you to hire multilingual employees!

5. Scalable Support

As your business expands, so do your customer service requirements. But hiring more agents can get expensive.  AI chatbots simplify the process of scaling customer service by providing an affordable solution that can handle thousands of conversations simultaneously without hiring more agents. Regardless of how many clients you have 100 or 10,000, a chatbot can manage the workload and offer reliable assistance without raising prices.

How Times Mobile’s AI Chatbot Boosts Your Business

Times Mobile has a powerful AI chatbot that connects to WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and RCS, so you can be where your customers are located. Here is how it works for you: 

  • Omnichannel Presence: Connect to your customers on WhatsApp, Instagram and more, providing a seamless experience.
  • Personalized Discounts & Coupons: Give individualized discounts based on customer behaviour to increase conversion. 
  • Service Desk Automation: Automate simple queries and route complex issues to human agents, improving efficiency.
  • Feedback & Assessments: Gathers feedback from customers following every interaction to keep your services getting better.

Why AI Chatbots Are the Future

AI chatbots are quickly becoming the backbone of customer support. They meet the growing demand for instant support. As customer expectations continue to increase, companies that only offer customer support through people will struggle to keep up.

Using Times Mobile’s chatbot, you can lower support costs, improve customer satisfaction, and increase conversions. With the global chatbot market on the rise, now is your chance to get ahead of the game and invest in advanced, AI-driven customer service.

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Key Benefits of Using the Official WhatsApp Business API https://timesmobile.in/key-benefits-of-the-official-whatsapp-business-api/ https://timesmobile.in/key-benefits-of-the-official-whatsapp-business-api/#respond Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:46:00 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=23165 If you’re already using WhatsApp to chat with friends and family, consider how effective it could be for your business. By using Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API, you can use WhatsApp to connect with customers in a more personal and effective way while growing your business.

WhatsApp isn’t just for texting your friends anymore and it’s become one of the most popular platforms for businesses to engage with customers. There are more than 2 billion active users globally and 200 million users in India alone, the potential to reach your audience is limitless. Also, WhatsApp messages have an incredible 98% open rate, that means most of your messages are actually seen and acted upon. That’s way higher than email or SMS, making WhatsApp a GOLDMINE for your business.

Keep reading to know how Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API can transform your business!

1. Reach a Massive Audience

WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps worldwide. As also stated above, with more than 2 billion active users, WhatsApp is an ideal platform to expand your reach. If you’re targeting customers in India, the U.S., Brazil, or anywhere else, WhatsApp gives you the chance to engage with people around the world.

And if you’re in India, you’re in luck! WhatsApp has approximately 200 million users, so it’s a platform your customers are already using daily. 

Times Mobile enables easy integration of WhatsApp into your business communication strategy. You can reach this massive audience anywhere – whether you are operating a local store or a global brand and start engaging with your customers like never before.

2. Seamless Integration with Your Business

An important challenge businesses encounter when implementing new technologies is integration, but we make it simple! As one of the leading WhatsApp Business API providers, we help you seamlessly integrate WhatsApp into your current system.

There is no need to be concerned about complicated setups. Our system handles everything from automated responses to sending rich media messages (images, videos, files, etc.), keeping you consistently engaged with your customers.

3. Simplify Communication, Maximize Engagement

Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API helps you communicate quickly with your customers and gives you a range of features to maximize engagement.

As an example, you can send broadcast notifications to communicate with hundreds or thousands of customers at the same time with special offers or updates. You can also use multi-agent chat functionalities that allow multiple team members to engage with customers and respond to queries simultaneously, so no customer ever has to wait long for a response.

With Times Mobile, your team can send personalized messages, even share catalogs of products, and receive payments through WhatsApp.

4. Personalize Your Messages for Better Results

One of the best ways to engage with your customers is to interact with them in a personalized way. 71% of customers report that they are frustrated when their shopping experience feels impersonal. WhatsApp is the ideal social media platform for creating a more personal experience.

With Times Mobile, you can send messages with images, videos, clickable buttons, and emojis. You can also send personalized offers to customers based on their preferences, which gives the customer a more tailored shopping experience that’s sure to build loyalty.

5. Unmatched Security with End-to-End Encryption

Security is a primary concern for customers, especially when sharing sensitive information. To solve this, WhatsApp provides end-to-end encryption for all messages received and sent through the app, meaning that any and all conversations between you and your customers are completely private and secure.

It does not matter whether you’re discussing a payment, an order for a product, or an issue with customer support; you can rest assured that your messages are safe. This is why WhatsApp is perfect for businesses that need to keep customer information protected.

Why Choose Times Mobile for WhatsApp Business?

There’s a lot of potential for businesses on WhatsApp and Times Mobile, the best CPaaS provider makes it easy to use WhatsApp. Being a verified WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, we give you the tools you need to make the most of this platform.

  • Simple Integration: Our WhatsApp API integrates smoothly with your existing systems.
  • Powerful Features: We offer everything from multi-agent chat to WhatsApp Payments and provide a full suite of tools to engage your customers
  • Security: With end-to-end encryption, your communications are always safe.
  • Personalization: Easily send personalized messages to improve engagement and drive sales.

Takeaway: Transform Your Business with Times Mobile

WhatsApp is a real revolution for businesses that want to communicate with customers. And now with Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API, you can quickly connect with millions of your customers, provide excellent customer service, and boost your sales all from a platform your customers already use every day.

Get in touch with us today and start transforming the way you communicate with your customers!

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Choosing the Right IVR Service Provider: A Complete Guide for Businesses https://timesmobile.in/choose-ivr-service-provider/ https://timesmobile.in/choose-ivr-service-provider/#respond Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:24:08 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22558 Ever feel like your phone never stops ringing?

This is a good problem to have, as it indicates that people want to connect with your business. However, when all the calls start coming in and you or your team cannot handle them, it can become overwhelming.

Missed calls can mean lost customers, missed opportunities, and lower satisfaction. That’s where an IVR, or Interactive Voice Response, can really make your life easier!

You may have heard this before: “To speak with our sales team, press 1. For customer support, press 2.…”

That is an IVR system that picks up your calls automatically, and directs callers along menu options, and connects them to the right person or department.

At Times Mobile, we help businesses like yours set up reliable, secure, and easy-to-use IVR systems that keep customers satisfied and the business on track.

67% of customers say they have a better experience with companies that use an Interactive Voice Response system (IVR), according to Deloitte.

But when it comes to choosing the best IVR service, how do you know which provider to choose with so many out there?

Let’s figure that out!

1. Start with Your Business Goals

What are you hoping to achieve with an IVR system?

  • Want to reduce customer wait times?
  • Need to automate repetitive tasks like appointment bookings or order tracking?
  • Or looking to serve customers in multiple languages?

When you’re clear on your goals, it becomes easier to find an IVR provider that can meet your specific needs.

At Times Mobile, we customize our solutions based on your business size, industry, and customer expectations.

2. Understand Your Call Volume

How many calls does your business handle each day? A local business taking 20-30 calls a day will be different than a call center taking thousands of calls every hour. Higher volume will require a more powerful system and has to be more scalable.

Times Mobile’s cloud IVR solutions grow with your business with no lag, no downtime, no worries.

3. Cloud or On-Premise?

There are two main options:

  • On-premise systems give you more control but require hardware, maintenance, and an in-house IT team.
  • Cloud-based IVR systems are easier to manage, more affordable, and don’t need any physical setup.

Most small and mid-sized businesses today prefer cloud solutions and Times Mobile makes switching to the cloud simple and secure.

4. Make Sure It Integrates with Your Tools

Your IVR system should work well with your existing tools like your CRM, support desk, or ticketing system. This ensures your team has all the info they need when answering calls no time wasted, no repeated questions.

Our systems at Times Mobile offer smooth integrations with popular business tools, so everything works together like a well-oiled machine.

5. Personalize the Customer Experience

Nobody wants to speak to a mechanical monotone voice over and over. With modern day IVR systems you can:

  • Greet customers by name
  • Present options based on previous interactions
  • Follow up via SMS or email

Times Mobile makes this level of personalization simple, so that your brand sounds warm, professional and human.

6. Ask for Reports and Insights

Want to know how your IVR system is performing? A good provider should offer reports that show:

  • When most calls are received
  • Where people drop off
  • How long calls last
  • How many are resolved on the first try

At Times Mobile, we provide simple dashboards with all this info, helping you spot trends and improve your service.

7. Prioritize Data Security

When customers share personal details over the phone, it is important to keep that information safe.

Times Mobile follows strict data protection practices, including encryption and secure call handling. We also comply with all of the major data privacy laws in India and globally.

8. Check the Support Quality

Even the best systems call for support from time to time, that’s why good customer support is non-negotiable. Times Mobile offers around-the-clock support, timely solutions, and a dedicated account manager so you’re never left in the dark.

9.  Reduce Waiting Time

In a study from Harris Interactive, 60 percent of customers are ready to hang up after just one minute on hold. That’s a lot of missed opportunities for any business.

But this is where an IVR system comes in. It allows customers to get quick access to information such as checking an order, getting account information, or booking a service without waiting to talk to a person.

Final Thoughts

An IVR system isn’t just a tool; it is part of how your business communicates. Choosing the right provider makes all the difference in how smoothly things run.

Regardless of whether you are a startup or an established business, Times Mobile is here to help you in building a better, smarter, and more efficient call experience for your customers.

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Top Benefits of Using Customer Support Chatbots for Businesses https://timesmobile.in/customer-support-chatbots-benefits/ https://timesmobile.in/customer-support-chatbots-benefits/#respond Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:12:56 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22551 Chatbots aren’t new but with the advent of artificial intelligence, they’ve become smarter, faster, and more helpful than ever before. In fact, they’re changing the way businesses handle customer support completely.

The Zendesk Customer Experience Trends Report 2025 states that 86% of customer experience (CX) leaders expect customer support to be entirely changed in the next three years. And what’s behind that change? AI-powered chatbots, like the ones we build at Times Mobile.

What Is a Customer Support Chatbot?

A customer support chatbot is a smart virtual assistant that talks with your customers on WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and your website. It responds to questions, helps them find what they’re looking for and provides real-time updates to the customer without the need for a human customer support agent.

At Times Mobile, our chatbots are built to give your customers fast, accurate answers 24/7, no matter which channel they choose.

Here’s How Your Business Can Benefit:

1. 24/7 Instant Support

Your customers don’t have to abide by business hours. Our AI chatbots are available 24/7 to engage and help your customers, even if your team is offline.

They respond instantly, give accurate answers, and solve problems without making customers wait on hold. It’s no wonder that 80% of consumers say they’ve had a positive experience with chatbots!

2. More Personal, Helpful Conversations

Today’s customers want support that feels personal and with the right chatbot, that’s totally possible. When you connect your chatbot to tools like your CRM, marketing software, or order system, it can:

  • Suggest products based on customer behavior
  • Recognize where a customer is in their journey and guide them
  • Ask if they need help with items in their cart
  • Give order updates without asking for order numbers

With Times Mobile, your chatbot uses real customer data (safely and securely) to make conversations feel natural, helpful, and relevant.

3. Talks in Any Language Your Customers Prefer

If you sell online, your customers might be from all over the world. Language shouldn’t be a barrier.

That’s why Times Mobile chatbots provides multilingual support. Whether your customer speaks English, Hindi, Spanish, or something else, our bots can either detect their language automatically or ask them their preference. From there, it continues the conversation in the right language using clear and friendly messages.

This helps your brand feel welcoming and easy to work with, no matter where your customers are.

4. Same Great Support Every Time

Human agents will experience days when they are at their best, and other days when they are not. Sometimes they forget things, make mistakes. They may even provide different answers to the same question.

But with a chatbot, your customers always get the same consistent answers, because it pulls information from a central source (like your knowledge base). It never gets tired, emotional, or overwhelmed even if the customer is angry or frustrated.

5. Built Just for Your Business

At Times Mobile, we do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a trusted CPaaS company, we will collaborate with you to customize the voice, tone, features, and workflows of your chatbot to ensure it fits your business well. Whether you are an e-commerce store, a travel agency, a bank, or any type of service-oriented business, we will build a chatbot that speaks your customers’ language (and your brand voice).

6. Works Everywhere Your Customers Are

Your customers are on more than just your website. They use WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, RCS, mobile apps, and more.

With Times Mobile’s omnichannel integration, your chatbot connects across all these platforms so no matter where your customers reach out, they get the same high-quality experience. You don’t need different tools for different channels. It’s all handled in one smooth system.

7. Track Results & Improve Performance

How can you tell if your chatbot is effective? With Times Mobile, it’s quite simple as we provide full performance analytics.

You’ll be able to see:

  • How many customers are using the chatbot
  • How many questions were answered correctly
  • What leads to sales/conversions
  • Opportunities to improve

This data helps you make better decisions and get more out of your chatbot over time.

8. Save Money While Growing Support

It takes time and money to hire and train human agents. With chatbots, however, you build it once and it’s ready to help every customer, every day, without any breaks or sick leave.

With chatbots, you will be able to:

  • Reduce customer service costs
  • Handle more conversations without hiring more staff
  • Let your team focus its energy on more complex issues

That’s a smart way to grow your support without growing your budget.

Final Thoughts

Customers’ expectations are changing fast. They want quicker responses, smarter service, and easier conversations. When you use Times Mobile’s AI chatbots, you aren’t just meeting those expectations but you’re going above and beyond.

So if you’re ready to deliver better support, save time, cut costs, and keep your customers happy…

Let’s build your custom chatbot today. With Times Mobile, smarter customer support is just one chat away.

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Click-to-WhatsApp Ads: Your 24/7 Digital Salesperson https://timesmobile.in/click-to-whatsapp-ads-your-round-the-clock-salesperson/ https://timesmobile.in/click-to-whatsapp-ads-your-round-the-clock-salesperson/#respond Wed, 27 Aug 2025 09:41:29 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22207 Let’s be real: today’s average digital attention span is just 8 seconds—ads don’t work the way they used to. You spend big bucks to reach your audience, only to watch them drop off before converting.

This is why you need our latest tool, Click-to-WhatsApp Ads (CTWA), to bridge the gap between interest and action and maximise your ROI.

Think about it: WhatsApp isn’t just an instant messenger; it’s a daily habit. If your brand reaches the right DMs at the right time, the chances of conversion are sky-high. That’s exactly what our new tool is built to achieve.

In today’s mobile-first economy, the expectations of enterprise customers have changed permanently. Indian consumers now interact with brands through WhatsApp, SMS, email, apps, and social channels in the same buying journey. They expect the conversation to be continuous, context-aware, and consistent across all touchpoints. This is where an omni-channel approach becomes a business driver rather than a customer care function. Unlike traditional multi-channel engagement, which fragments the conversation across isolated platforms, omni-channel builds one unified identity and orchestrates every interaction seamlessly. With over 1.12 billion mobile connections and WhatsApp as the country’s most trusted messaging app, the Indian market has evolved into an environment where enterprises must design journeys around the customer, not around the channel. Businesses that adopt this mindset not only deliver smoother experiences but also build measurable enterprise value in the form of higher loyalty, faster resolution, and stronger long-term growth.

Work Smarter, Not Harder: The Power of Click-to-WhatsApp Ads

Our Click-to-WhatsApp ad system is powered by our proprietary data centre, which analyses consumer behaviour and intent signals to identify and precisely target potential customers. This ensures your ad reaches the right customer, instantly sparking a one-on-one conversation that works as your 24/7 salesperson.

Traditional ads often force users through a long, multi-step journey that leads to disengagement. Our CTWA solution works smarter by redirecting users from captivating ad copy on digital platforms, including Meta, Instagram, and Google, directly into a WhatsApp chat. By removing the landing page, we cut the information overload that usually causes users to drop off.

Multi-Channel vs Omni-Channel Clarification

Many enterprises still confuse multi-channel with omni-channel. Multi-channel simply means being present on different platforms  a bank sending an SMS alert, an app notification, and an email for the same event is an example. While the customer receives multiple communications, each thread is separate, often leading to repetition and frustration. Omni-channel changes the equation by unifying the customer’s identity and history across every touchpoint. For example, if a customer begins an insurance claim conversation on WhatsApp, continues it through a web portal, and later follows up with a contact center agent, the entire interaction is captured as one seamless journey. There is no need for the customer to repeat details or authenticate multiple times. This shift is more than technological; it is cultural. It signals that the enterprise values customer time and consistency. In a competitive market like India, where switching costs are low, the enterprises that deliver omni-channel journeys gain a decisive advantage in retention and satisfaction.

This is how the seamless user journey works:

  • A user sees your engaging ad on their social media feed.
  • Interested, they tap the ad.
  • Instead of a landing page, the action instantly opens a WhatsApp chat with your brand.
  • An AI bot or a human agent responds immediately, providing instant answers and driving the conversation toward a conversion.

This direct, frictionless path turns a passive click into an active, high-intent conversation, allowing you to close deals faster and more effectively.

Authentication & Compliance: Building Customer Trust

Trust is the foundation of omni-channel engagement. With multiple touchpoints, enterprises must ensure that every interaction is authenticated, consistent, and compliant. Omni-channel authentication allows a customer to verify once and carry that identity across channels — whether it is OTP-less SIM authentication on SMS, single sign-on through apps, or verified WhatsApp business threads. This prevents the fatigue of repeated logins while also reducing fraud risks. In India, compliance is strengthened further by the DPDP Act, which obligates enterprises to collect, store, and respect customer consent across channels. A platform-led approach ensures that every opt-in is tracked, templates are approved by Meta for WhatsApp, and audit logs are maintained. This gives enterprises confidence that engagement is not only seamless but also legally defensible. For a market that is rapidly digitizing, building compliance into the journey is not an option — it is the only way to maintain trust at scale.

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Industry Use Cases

The power of omni-channel customer experience becomes more visible when applied to specific industries. In BFSI, fraud alerts, transaction updates, and loan servicing run smoothly when SMS, WhatsApp, and call centers all reflect the same conversation history. E-commerce players recover abandoned carts more effectively when a Facebook ad click leads directly to a WhatsApp chat, followed by a payment confirmation in-app. Healthcare providers use omni-channel to simplify patient journeys, from appointment reminders via SMS to lab reports shared securely on WhatsApp, all while maintaining privacy compliance. In logistics, customers no longer tolerate the frustration of tracking numbers across different websites. Instead, real-time package updates are synchronized across WhatsApp and branded web portals, providing clarity in one thread. Education institutions are also adopting omni-channel solutions to notify students of admissions, exams, and counseling slots through consistent, connected messaging. These examples highlight that omni-channel is not a buzzword — it is a strategy already shaping customer expectations in every sector. Enterprises that ignore this shift risk being left behind by competitors who deliver clarity, consistency, and control to their customers.

Why Big Brands Choose CTWA by Times Mobile

There are many marketing tools out there, but what sets us apart is our full-funnel approach and unmatched reach. We leverage the massive Times Internet inventory (TOI, ET, NBT, Cricbuzz, and more) to get you maximum visibility.

Unlike tools that only chase clicks, we combine the personal touch of real-time conversations (AI + human agents) with deep analytics, retargeting, and precision targeting. This gives you complete control over your ROI.

Our Unique ‘Ability to Purchase’ Data

India’s digital universe has 900 million users, but not everyone is a buyer. Our focus is on the 550 million high-intent users most likely to convert.

Through our unique ‘Ability to Purchase’ signals, we filter genuine buyers by analysing over 140 data points—income, asset ownership, past purchase behaviour, and more.

Our fast-refreshing data ensures accuracy, while cart abandoners can be retargeted instantly with direct WhatsApp conversations—turning fleeting interest into confirmed sales.

Real Results Across Industries

  • D2C Brands: COD order capture and repeat purchase triggers drove a 20% drop in cart abandonment and boosted repeat purchases.
  • BFSI: Automated KYC and document collection flows achieved 30% faster lead verification vs landing pages.
  • Education: Direct WhatsApp counselling delivered a 25% higher subscription conversion rate vs email support.
  • Real Estate: Seamless scheduling increased site visit bookings by 18%, directly from chat.

Optimization & The Future of CTWA

Omni-channel optimization is the next frontier for enterprises. With AI-driven analytics, brands can now orchestrate customer journeys in real time, deciding not just what to send but when, how, and through which channel. For example, if a high-value retail customer ignores an SMS but engages quickly with WhatsApp, the orchestration layer can automatically prioritize WhatsApp for future interactions. Similarly, advanced analytics feed back into the CRM to measure funnel conversions, calculate ROI across channels, and refine campaigns. The future of omni-channel will also include WhatsApp Flows for interactive journeys, integrated payments within chats, and stronger identity frameworks under initiatives like Meta Verified. For Indian enterprises, these innovations represent an opportunity to leapfrog legacy systems and deliver customer experiences that rival global standards. The winners will be the businesses that not only deploy omni-channel but also optimize continuously with data, ensuring that every interaction builds trust, convenience, and measurable enterprise growth.

Conclusion

Omni-channel customer experience is no longer a marketing experiment; it is the enterprise growth engine. Customers in India demand consistent conversations across SMS, WhatsApp, apps, and contact centers, and they reward the brands that deliver with loyalty and lifetime value. Enterprises that still rely on fragmented, multi-channel strategies are already losing ground. The future belongs to those who unify customer identity, respect consent, and orchestrate every interaction with precision. Times Mobile’s conviction is simple — omni-channel is not optional. It is the standard for enterprises that want to lead in trust, efficiency, and customer success.

So, are you ready to take your marketing game up a notch? Let Click-To-WhatsApp by Times Mobile be your coach. 2X your conversions now!

Book a Demo.

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What Is an SMS API and Why It’s Essential for Your Business https://timesmobile.in/what-is-sms-api-and-why-your-business-needs-it/ https://timesmobile.in/what-is-sms-api-and-why-your-business-needs-it/#respond Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:28:34 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22154 Today, customers desire straightforward and fast messages from the companies they work with. Whether it is a reminder about a booking, a special offer, or an update about delivery, they like to get the information quickly and without any confusion. And honestly, the easiest way to make that happen? A simple text message.

SMS APIs remain the backbone of enterprise communication in India  not a legacy tool, but the channel that guarantees reach in every geography and on every handset. With over 450 million feature-phone users and TRAI-mandated compliance for all A2P traffic, no serious business can design a digital journey without SMS APIs. They don’t just deliver OTPs  they secure transactions, trigger updates, and anchor omnichannel orchestration when data connectivity is weak.

In fact, according to Statista, A2P (Application-to-Person) SMS marketing is projected to reach an estimated $78 billion worldwide by 2027. That’s a big number and one that indicates how powerful SMS has become for businesses across the globe.

However, the trouble with manually sending texts one by one is that it takes time and effort. That’s where an SMS API can help. It can assist your system to automatically send messages without any person doing it manually.

Let’s break down SMS APIs and how your business can start using one with TimesMobile.

What Is an SMS API?

An SMS API (Application Programming Interface) is a tool that links your system or program to a text messaging service so that your platform, website, or app can send and receive SMS messages automatically.

An SMS API is more than a code hook, it is a policy-driven bridge between enterprise systems and telecom operators. Applications connect to the API through REST endpoints with authentication keys, send requests in JSON or XML, and receive delivery receipts in real time. Each message call is checked against registered DLT templates and headers before release, ensuring compliance at scale. This is why enterprises treat SMS APIs as infrastructure, not a plugin.

For example, suppose you own a business that needs to send order updates or appointment reminders to hundreds of customers every day. Rather than sending these messages one by one, an SMS API can send them automatically, at the right time, and to the right people.

The workflow is precise: CRM or ERP triggers an event → API request reaches the Times Mobile platform → instant checks confirm consent and DLT compliance → the operator gateway routes the message → the handset receives it with delivery confirmation. Failover rules are built in — if delivery fails, the API retries or switches to another route. This disciplined chain ensures OTPs, fraud alerts, and transactional updates are always delivered on time.

With TimesMobile, this process becomes easy, fast, and reliable, with no manual work and no delays.

Why Your Business Should Use an SMS API?

As a business owner, communicating with your customers is essential. Whether you’re sending reminders, updates, or promotions, people want quick and clear messages while communicating via their phones.

An SMS API can help you with that. It makes messaging faster, easier, and more reliable. Here’s why you might want to use one for your business.

1. Send Messages Instantly – Even When You’re Not Around

Without the need for a manual process, an SMS API enables your system to send messages to users automatically when they need them. Like payment reminders, delivery updates, or a one-time password (OTP) can all be sent when you want, even during the night or weekends.

So while you are focusing on other areas of your business (or even off the clock), your customers will still be informed.

2. Keep Communication Going 24/7

We all know that phone calls and emails usually need someone to be present. But with an SMS API, you won’t have to be there. Once it’s set up, it runs by itself.You can rest at midnight or even on holiday; your system can send reminders, alerts, or time-sensitive deals. You never have to make any extra effort.

3. Avoid Mistakes and Save Time

Sending messages manually takes time and can be risky. You could accidentally enter the wrong number, forget to send a reminder, or misspell a word. With an SMS API, your system does all that. You can send thousands of messages quickly and accurately. It saves you time and helps you avoid the kind of small mistakes that can lead to unhappy customers.

4. Bring All Your Tools Together

If you are already using a CRM system, marketing software, or a helpdesk platform, you can connect it to your SMS API.

This means your communication becomes smooth and automatic. For example, when a customer makes an appointment, your system will send a confirmation text. If there was a delay in shipping, you would be able to automatically send a note to the customer.

This allows you to avoid switching between tools or doing things twice, it all works together.

5. Let Customers Text You Back

Communication shouldn’t be one-sided. People are naturally curious and do want to ask a question, respond, or provide some feedback when the conversation is going on. Did you know that 61% of consumers want the ability to text a business back?

With two-way messaging, your customers can respond to your messages. They might ask a question, complete a small survey, or simply say thank you. It feels more natural and promotes trust between your organization and the people you serve.

6. Make the Customer Experience Even Better

Customers remember the way you made them feel. People will value it if you are able to communicate with them at the right moment and offer a personal, helpful message.

Enterprises in India run on SMS APIs because they solve real problems at scale. Banks rely on them for OTPs, EMI reminders, and fraud alerts. E-commerce players push shipping updates and cart recovery nudges. Healthcare chains remind patients about appointments and prescriptions. Logistics providers update delivery status in real time. Education institutes notify students and parents of fees, exams, and schedules. Each of these journeys demands high throughput, secure templates, and clear reporting  all powered by SMS APIs.

With an SMS API, you can:

  • Include the customer’s name in the messages.
  • Send offers based on previous purchases or interests.
  • Keep them updated in real time.
  • Give immediate replies with auto-replies or chatbots.

When consumers feel heard, supported, and valued, they are far more likely to stick around.

Compliance is built into the DNA of SMS APIs in India. Every enterprise must register as a Principal Entity on the TRAI-mandated DLT system  secure headers and pre-approved templates are mandatory. Each outbound SMS attracts a ₹0.025 DLT scrubbing fee. Promotional traffic is restricted to 10am–9pm delivery windows, and DPDP 2023 requires consent capture and purpose binding for personal data. Times Mobile automates these checks so no non-compliant message leaves the system.

Why Choose Times Mobile’s SMS Gateway API?

At TimesMobile, best cpaas solutions provider india, we’re all about purpose-driven communication. We created our SMS Solutions platform for companies who need convenient, dependable and safe mass communications.

With TimesMobile’ SMS API, you get:

  • Seamless integrations into your existing systems
  • High delivery rates on mobile networks.
  • Tools for personalizing and segmenting messages
  • Fast, scalable, and cost-effective service.

Whether you’re delivering transactional alerts, promotional messages, or developing loyalty campaigns, TimesMobile’s SMS API can help you get your message across effectively.

India’s A2P SMS market continues to expand  billions of OTPs and alerts are processed monthly across banking, fintech, and ecommerce. Pricing sits in the ₹0.12–₹0.15 per SMS band, with DLT costs on top. WhatsApp Business messages run higher, typically ₹0.35–₹0.50 depending on category, while RCS pilots remain limited. The real calculation is not just cost per message  but cost per conversion. Enterprises that design journeys with strict consent, timely triggers, and clean failover consistently see lower cost per lead and higher ROI.

Final Thoughts

SMS APIs are not optional add-ons  they are the foundation of enterprise messaging in India. They deliver reach when apps fail, enforce compliance by design, and scale reliably from thousands to millions of events per day. The most successful enterprises use SMS APIs alongside WhatsApp and RCS  orchestrated from one layer  to guarantee speed, security, and customer trust. That is how messaging drives real business success at scale.

An SMS API is more than simply a technical tool; it’s a smart way to get in touch with customers quickly and easily. It allows companies to work more quickly, reduce errors, improve their customer service, and save costs. If you want to enhance your business communications and you’re ready to see results, now is the time to make the switch. Start with TimesMobile and start seeing how SMS can push your business ahead.

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What Are RCS Messages and How Are They Different from SMS? https://timesmobile.in/rcs-vs-sms-differences/ https://timesmobile.in/rcs-vs-sms-differences/#respond Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:35:53 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22148 When you send a text message today, you’re probably using SMS even if you don’t know it. SMS stands for Short Message Service, and it’s been the standard way of texting for over 30 years. But now, there’s a newer, better way to send messages: Rich Communication Services, or RCS.

RCS transforms the default Messages app into a branded channel that guides customers from interest to action in a single thread. Rich cards display product visuals and pricing, carousels let users compare variants, and quick replies reduce typing effort. Suggested actions trigger the next step instantly — opening a map, adding to a calendar, calling support, or deep-linking into checkout. Every interaction creates an event log, giving product, growth, and CX teams full visibility into which creatives and calls-to-action drive conversions and close the loop.

At Times Mobile, we help businesses connect with customers in more modern, exciting, and interactive ways. RCS is one of the best tools available today to do just that. In this article, we’ll discuss what RCS is, how it’s different from SMS, and why it matters for your business.

RCS adds verified branding, rich cards, carousels, and tap-to-act buttons inside the native Messages app. SMS delivers unmatched reach and instant delivery over carrier rails. At Times Mobile, we design the stack so you use RCS for interactive journeys and fall back to SMS for universal coverage and regulated alerts. This comparison helps enterprises choose the right channel per use case not the noisiest one.

What Is SMS?

SMS is the most basic form of text messaging. It works on almost every phone and doesn’t need internet or Wi-Fi. That’s one of the reasons it has remained popular for so long.

With SMS:

  • Messages are limited to 160 characters
  • You can’t send pictures or videos (unless using MMS)
  • There are no typing indicators or read receipts
  • It sends messages through the mobile network, not the internet

Even in 2025, texting is still the most popular mobile activity, with 83% of people saying they text more than they use social media or email. So businesses continue to use SMS because it’s simple and reaches everyone.
However, SMS appears to be quite out of date these days. It is simple, short, and does not support contemporary features. This is where RCS comes in.

SMS remains the universal, carrier-grade channel for alerts, OTPs, and fail-safe delivery. It works with data off, in low-bandwidth zones, and on every handset available. For regulated updates and urgent notifications, SMS meets SLAs without friction. RCS adds rich, interactive journeys; SMS ensures delivery every time. The right messaging architecture accepts both realities and routes traffic accordingly.

What Is RCS Messaging?

RCS is a newer type of messaging that allows you to send more than just plain text. It works inside the phone’s regular messaging app, just like SMS, but it offers a lot more features.

Governance makes delivery reliable. Times Mobile applies naming standards, category mapping, and localization rules to every SMS and RCS template. Brand and legal reviews are built into the workflow instead of scattered email threads. RCS verification stays strong with consistent branding and low spam signals, while DLT-approved SMS headers and templates remain in sync with the actual outbound traffic. This structured governance prevents last-minute rejections and protects quality scores across all channels.

With RCS, you can:

  • Send high-quality images, videos, and even audio
  • Show typing indicators and read receipts
  • Create group chats
  • Add buttons for quick replies or actions
  • Include your business name, logo, and a verified checkmark

At Times Mobile, we provide RCS messaging that enables businesses to stand out. This implies your messaging will be more interactive, media-rich, and engaging for your customers, rather than just simple text.

“Rich SMS” is not a standard. Marketers sometimes say “rich SMS” to describe plain SMS containing short links, Unicode, or previewed URLs. RCS is the actual standards-based rich channel with buttons, carousels, and verified branding rendered natively. Treat SMS as the reach rail and RCS as the rich interaction rail; orchestrate both from one policy.

For enterprises, RCS runs through RBM: a verified brand profile, logo and name in the header, rich cards/carousels, suggested replies/actions, and delivery/read/interaction events that flow to analytics. Times Mobile configures RBM so promotions, guided onboarding, support triage, and surveys run inside one thread no app install, no webview gymnastics with SMS failover baked in.

Why Should Businesses Use RCS?

Today’s customers want more from their conversations with brands. They want clear, helpful, and easy communication. That’s where Times Mobile comes in.

We help businesses use RCS to:

  • Send eye-catching messages with images, videos, and carousels
  • Add quick-reply buttons so customers can respond instantly
  • Show your brand name and logo, making messages more trustworthy
  • Track message performance, like who opened or clicked

When messages are more interactive, people are more likely to respond. In fact:

  • A 2018 study by GSMA found that 74% of people said they would be more likely to engage with a brand through RCS.

RCS Business Messaging exposes a verified business profile with brand name and logo in the chat header. SMS communicates trust through registered sender IDs and DLT-approved templates. Times Mobile provisions both correctly, maintains template hygiene, and monitors quality so customers recognise the brand, engage confidently, and avoid phishing lookalikes.

When Should You Use RCS or SMS?

RCS and SMS reach their potential only when they sit on a clean integration spine. Times Mobile connects channels to CRM, CDP, helpdesk, and marketing automation through secure APIs and webhooks. Every message emits events sent, delivered, read (for RCS), action tapped, reply received, fallback triggered, opt-out processed. Those events feed the warehouse and BI, where journeys, cohorts, and experiments are measured with the same discipline you expect from product analytics.

Both SMS and RCS have their place. It depends on what you’re trying to do and who you’re trying to reach.

Use RCS if:

  • You want to send media-rich messages (images, videos, carousels)
  • You need features like read receipts or typing indicators
  • Your customers have newer Android phones that support RCS
  • You want a branded, interactive experience

Use SMS if:

  • You need to reach everyone, including people with older phones
  • You’re sending a short, urgent message
  • You don’t need advanced features

With Times Mobile, you don’t have to choose just one. We help businesses combine SMS and RCS so you can send the right message in the right format every time.

Lead with RCS for users on supported Android/iOS builds use cards, lists, and quick actions to cut friction. If RCS is unsupported or undelivered within 120 seconds, send the equivalent SMS. For OTP or critical alerts, use 45 seconds, then escalate to Voice/IVR at 3 minutes if no delivery is recorded. Times Mobile logs sent, delivered, read, action-tapped, and fallback-triggered events to your BI so performance is provable.

SMS is the lowest unit-cost rail and delivers reliably even when data is off. RCS is priced slightly above SMS yet remains below WhatsApp for similar media workloads; higher CTR and read rates offset unit differences. We pace campaigns to channel throughput, keep quality scores healthy, and route long-tail reach to SMS so you scale volume without losing performance.

What Times Mobile Offers?

At Times Mobile, best cpaas solutions, we don’t believe in boring text messages. Our RCS service helps you turn everyday customer interactions into memorable, engaging conversations.

We help businesses:

  • Build customer trust with verified business profiles
  • Boost engagement and loyalty with rich content
  • Stand out from other brands with eye-catching messages

With Times Mobile RCS messaging, your business can finally deliver messages that look and feel modern and that your customers will actually enjoy receiving.

Times Mobile links RCS and SMS through one CPaaS layer connected to CRM, CDP, Helpdesk, and Marketing Automation, while streaming events into the data warehouse or BI tools. We track every signal — sent, delivered, read (RCS), action tap, carousel view, reply, opt-out, and fallback triggers — then report on delivery rate, read rate, CTR, conversion, time-to-first-engagement, and cost per resolved intent. This makes channel selection an operational policy, not a matter of guesswork.

Final Thoughts

RCS is more than just a new kind of message; it’s the future of mobile communication. If you want your messages to get noticed, remembered, and acted on, RCS is the way to go.

RCS drives guided interactions; SMS guarantees reach. Enterprises need both. Times Mobile integrates channels into your systems of record, enforces consent and governance, and instruments every journey for measurable improvement. The outcome is simple: higher completion rates for the tasks that pay the bills, without sacrificing compliance or reliability.

Let Times Mobile help you upgrade your messaging. Whether you’re sending promotions, reminders, updates, or customer support, RCS can help you do it better.

Make every message count. Make conversations richer with Times Mobile.

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Upgrade the Customer Journey Experience with TimesMobile & MoEngage https://timesmobile.in/update-your-customer-journeys-with-timesmobile-and-moengage/ https://timesmobile.in/update-your-customer-journeys-with-timesmobile-and-moengage/#respond Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:31:33 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22032 India’s digital-first landscape has transformed the way enterprises think about customer journeys. With more than a billion mobile subscribers and hundreds of millions of WhatsApp users, customer interactions are no longer limited to traditional touchpoints like SMS or email. Enterprises that continue to operate in silos face fragmented conversations, duplicated messages, and poor customer retention. In contrast, adopting an omnichannel approach powered by Times Mobile and MoEngage ensures every interaction  whether on SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, or email is part of one seamless, contextual journey. This is not just customer communication; it is customer orchestration designed for enterprise-scale growth.

In a digital world where every interaction counts, brands aiming to build stronger relationships with customers must communicate in personalised ways. Times Mobile has formed a strategic partnership with MoEngage, a top customer engagement platform that uses insights to drive engagement. Together, we are helping businesses reach their customers better through India’s two most impactful messaging channels: SMS and WhatsApp Business.

Why This Partnership Is Important

Many organizations confuse multichannel with omnichannel. Multichannel communication simply means being present across platforms, but each channel functions independently without sharing context. This often forces customers to repeat themselves or deal with inconsistent experiences. Omnichannel, on the other hand, unifies every touchpoint under a single customer identity. With Times Mobile and MoEngage, enterprises can orchestrate conversations where a customer who starts on WhatsApp, continues via SMS, and completes the journey over email still experiences a single, connected thread. This ability to synchronize identity, consent, and engagement across channels is what drives higher lifetime value and enterprise success.

  • Key Elements of the Strategic Alliance

Recent industry research shows that consumers’ tastes are changing:

  • Over 75% of Indian customers now prefer WhatsApp for business communication
  • SMS remains highly effective with a 98% open rate within minutes of delivery

India’s business messaging landscape is shifting fast: RCS (Rich Communication Services) is emerging as a major value channel alongside WhatsApp. Enterprises are increasingly adopting RCS because it delivers rich media experiences, interactive elements, and higher engagement than plain SMS—while being cheaper than WhatsApp in many use cases. RCS messages in India are achieving delivery rates above 98% and read rates between 35-70%, with click-through rates often three to four times higher than SMS. As smartphone adoption increases, especially Android devices, RCS is positioned to capture a substantial share of message volumes from SMS during sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Indian businesses that integrate RCS alongside SMS and WhatsApp are already seeing stronger brand trust and better campaign performance.

With this partnership, businesses can send personalised, real-time campaigns that are more relevant, responsive, and impactful. Combining MoEngage’s intelligent engagement platform with Times Mobile’s secure, high-volume messaging infrastructure, you can elevate your marketing strategies.

  • Benefits for Brands In Different Industries

Enterprises in India are already leveraging omnichannel strategies to solve industry-specific challenges. BFSI institutions use SMS and WhatsApp flows for loan approvals, EMI reminders, and fraud alerts while ensuring compliance with TRAI and RBI guidelines. Retail and eCommerce brands integrate personalized cart recovery and flash sale alerts through WhatsApp and RCS, driving faster conversions during peak shopping seasons. In travel and hospitality, real-time updates such as itinerary changes, boarding passes, and hotel check-in links are delivered across channels, ensuring zero disruption in the customer journey. Healthcare providers are also using omnichannel communication for appointment scheduling, lab report sharing, and telemedicine support. Each of these use cases highlights how Times Mobile and MoEngage help enterprises deliver reliable, contextual, and measurable customer experiences.

Slow replies cause 73% of users to abandon the other platforms, and as a result, brands across industries are adopting mobile-first engagement strategies. Here’s how it works:

● WhatsApp Catalogues, which are accessed over 40 million times a month, are an excellent way for retailers and e-commerce sites to showcase their products, promote sales, track orders, and recover abandoned carts.

● In healthcare, WhatsApp works great in providing appointment reminders and health updates, the two main reasons why 50% of users contact them.

● In the travel and hospitality sector, timing is everything. Brands can send travel deals or booking confirmations exactly when users are exploring destinations.

● For media and publishing, real-time content recommendations based on browsing behaviour can keep audiences engaged.

● For financial services, sending customised messages about deals or policy changes builds trust and improves users’ experience.

This move towards WhatsApp engagement results in higher customer satisfaction, stronger brand loyalty, and improved conversion rates. So, when are you changing your marketing plans?

Compliance and Data Privacy

Trust and compliance are the backbone of customer communication. In India, where the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and TRAI’s SMS regulations are reshaping enterprise outreach, businesses cannot afford non-compliance. Times Mobile ensures that every interaction  whether via WhatsApp templates, SMS campaigns, or RCS messages  adheres to regulatory requirements while safeguarding customer data. By embedding consent checks, DLT compliance, and template governance into the communication workflow, enterprises can scale their campaigns confidently without risking penalties or reputational damage.

WhatsApp is outperforming both email and SMS in open and click rates in multiple markets, including India. While traditional email and SMS often see open rates in the 20-25% range, WhatsApp messages routinely record open rates around 95-98%. Click-through or conversion metrics for WhatsApp are significantly higher some reports put them at 45-60% when message content is interactive, relevant, or includes rich media. These differences make WhatsApp automation not a luxury, but a necessity for brands looking to maximize engagement and ROI.

About TimesMobile

Times Mobile is one of India’s best CPaaS (Communication Platform as a Service) providers. It enables businesses to connect with their customers through SMS, RCS, and WhatsApp Business. As a part of the Times Internet ecosystem, it offers secure and scalable messaging solutions to over 150 brands. The infrastructure ensures real-time, enterprise-grade communication systems that businesses can rely on. Want to know more?
Tape here: www.timesmobile.in.

Times Mobile’s strategic collaboration with MoEngage has unlocked unique value for brands by combining localized scale with personalization intelligence. Times Mobile brings telco-grade deliverability, regulatory compliance (DLT, TRAI), and wide reach across SMS and WhatsApp. MoEngage contributes predictive AI, content recommendations, and omnichannel orchestration. Together, they empower brands to deploy hyper-personalized campaigns that send the right message via the right channel at the right time  whether through SMS for reach or WhatsApp or RCS for richer interaction  without sacrificing consistency or compliance. This joint capability is now an industry benchmark for customer communication in India.

About MoEngage

MoEngage’s platform goes beyond campaign automation. It enables connected content that dynamically personalizes every outbound message with customer-specific data, ensuring relevance at scale. For enterprises in India, this means sending offers that reflect local preferences, festive shopping behavior, or geo-targeted promotions. In addition, MoEngage supports RCS campaigns that allow businesses to deliver rich media messages such as product carousels, clickable buttons, and payment links  directly in the customer’s default messaging app. When combined with Times Mobile’s messaging infrastructure, these capabilities transform engagement from simple notifications into immersive experiences that drive conversions.

MoEngage is an insights-led customer engagement platform, trusted by more than 1,000 brands in 35+ countries. The platform delivers over 50 billion messages every month via push notifications, emails, RCS, SMS, in-app messages, web, and WhatsApp. Endorsed by Gartner, Forrester, and G2, it helps brands deliver highly personalised experiences on a large scale.
Learn more: www.moengage.com

One of the biggest advantages of omnichannel orchestration is the ability to measure results in real time. Times Mobile and MoEngage provide enterprises with dashboards that track open rates, click-through rates, conversion funnels, and even customer lifetime value across multiple channels. This unified view eliminates vanity metrics and enables decision-makers to see exactly which campaign, channel, or trigger is delivering ROI. For enterprises focused on efficiency and growth, these insights translate into smarter resource allocation and better campaign performance over time.

Conclusion

The future of enterprise communication in India is not about choosing between SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, or email. It is about orchestrating all these channels into one unified experience that respects customer context, consent, and convenience. Enterprises that adopt an omnichannel approach with Times Mobile and MoEngage are not just improving communication  they are building long-term customer trust, enhancing operational efficiency, and unlocking measurable business growth. In a market where customer expectations evolve rapidly, this unified strategy is no longer optional; it is the foundation of enterprise success.

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WhatsApp Business API vs WhatsApp Business App: How to Choose the Right One https://timesmobile.in/whatsapp-business-api-vs-whatsapp-business-app-which-one-do-you-need/ https://timesmobile.in/whatsapp-business-api-vs-whatsapp-business-app-which-one-do-you-need/#respond Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:32:01 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22018 WhatsApp is one of the world’s most-used messaging platforms with over 2.2 billion users monthly. That’s a lot of people using the application to communicate with friends, family and businesses.
If you run a business, small or big, WhatsApp is an easy and fast way to reach your customers. But there are two different tools made for businesses: the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API.
Let’s clarify the difference between the two and help you choose which one is best for your business.

WhatsApp has become the default communication channel for both consumers and businesses in India, with more than 500 million active users engaging daily. For a business, being present on WhatsApp is no longer optional  it is the most direct and trusted way to reach customers where they already spend their time. WhatsApp Business solutions are designed to support this need, but there are two very different paths: the WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API. Understanding the difference is critical. The app is a convenient entry-level tool for small businesses, while the API is a structured platform that allows enterprises to automate, integrate, and scale customer engagement. This article explores those differences with the clarity of experience, guiding Indian businesses on which solution aligns with their growth ambitions.

What is the WhatsApp Business App?

The WhatsApp Business App is a totally free mobile app available on Android and iPhone. It was specifically developed for small business owners who want to connect with their customers in a more organized way.
Before the launch of the Business App, some companies were already using regular WhatsApp to talk to customers, but the regular app didn’t have enough features to support business needs. Therefore, the Business App was created.

Key Features:

  • You can set up a business profile that includes your name, address, website, and contact information.
  • You can provide your opening hours.
  • You can have a product catalog to display your products or services.
  • You can set automated messages to welcome clients or tell them when you’re away.

This app is best if you’re just starting out and managing everything on your own.

What is the WhatsApp Business API?

The WhatsApp Business API is made for medium to large businesses. It’s not an app you download, it’s a service that connects WhatsApp to other business tools you may already use.

Compliance is central to the WhatsApp Business API. Every outbound message must be sent using a pre-approved template, and businesses must obtain clear opt-in consent from their customers. The 24-hour service window ensures that customer-initiated chats are responded to promptly, while template rules govern marketing and transactional categories. Under India’s DPDP Act, enterprises are obligated to capture and respect consent records, making the API a safer and more accountable option compared to the Business App. While a company can technically use both the app and the API at the same time, Meta positions the API as the standard for enterprises because it enforces policy discipline and scales without risk.

It was created because the app had some limits. For example, the app can only be used on one phone at a time. That doesn’t work for businesses with teams or a high number of messages.
With the API, you can:

  • Use WhatsApp on multiple devices and with multiple users.
  • Connect it to your CRM or customer database.
  • Automate many types of messages and customer service tasks.
  • Handle a large number of customer chats every day.

To use the API, you need to sign up through a provider like Times Mobile, the top CPaaS provider, which is one of India’s trusted WhatsApp Business API partners.

WhatsApp Business App vs WhatsApp Business API: What’s the Difference?

The WhatsApp Business App and the WhatsApp Business API serve two very different business needs. The app is designed for small shops or service providers who manage conversations directly from a single mobile device. It supports quick replies, catalogs, and basic automation but remains limited by its single-user nature. In contrast, the WhatsApp Business API is built for enterprises — it enables multi-user access, chatbot integration, CRM connectivity, and high-volume messaging with full compliance to Meta’s policies. It is important to note that a WhatsApp Business Account (often referred to as WABA) is the umbrella identity that connects a business to Meta’s ecosystem. The API operates under this account, while the app is a separate lightweight tool. This distinction clarifies why enterprises in India increasingly migrate from the app to the API once scale and compliance become priorities.

Both tools allow you to use WhatsApp to communicate with your customers but they are designed for different types of businesses. Here’s a simple comparison to help you understand:

1. Who is it for?

  • WhatsApp Business App: Best for smaller businesses, individuals, or those just getting started.
  • WhatsApp Business API: Best for a growing business with a team and/or receiving high-volume customer interactions daily.

2. Broadcast Messaging

  • Business App: You can send bulk messages to a maximum of 256 contacts in one go.
  • Business API: You can send messages to up to 100,000 users in one day, great for sending big promotions and campaigns.

3. Number of Users

  • Business App: Can be used on only one phone at a time.
  • Business API: Multiple team members can reply to customers from different devices.

4. Integrations with Other Tools

  • Business App: CRMs and other systems cannot be integrated.
  • Business API: Compatible with such tools as CRMs, Google Sheets, ERPs, and others. You can sync your customer data automatically.

5. Automation and Chatbots

  • Business App: Only has basic automation features such as away messages and greeting.
  • Business API: Allows for full automation. You can automate order updates, payment reminders, abandoned cart messages, and even chatbots for customer service.

6. Scaling Your Business

  • Business App: Works well if you have a few customers and low message volume.
  • Business API: Designed to handle high volumes of messages and customers.

When evaluating cost, it is misleading to compare only the per-message rates. A marketing template on WhatsApp Business API in India is typically billed at a higher rate than an SMS, yet the response and conversion rates are consistently stronger. For example, a cart recovery campaign using the API can reach qualified users instantly, achieve read rates above 85%, and generate conversions at a lower cost per lead compared to bulk SMS. This is why enterprises calculate cost per conversation and cost per conversion, not just cost per send. For businesses serious about growth, the API proves to be more economical in the long run despite higher upfront message charges.

Why Choose Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API?

If you’re thinking of using the WhatsApp Business API, Times Mobile can help, a trusted WhatsApp API provider in India, and will make it easy to get started.
With Times Mobile you get:

  • Fast and secure setup
  • Seamless integration with your current business tools
  • Assistance with automation and campaigns
  • Support for your organization and customers

This helps you connect with your customers in real time, share updates, send offers, and support your buyers through every step.

Different industries in India use the WhatsApp Business API to solve unique challenges at scale. Banks and fintechs rely on it for fraud alerts, OTPs, and KYC updates. E-commerce brands use it for order confirmations, shipping notifications, and cart recovery reminders. Healthcare providers schedule appointments, share reports, and send wellness reminders through secure threads. Logistics companies provide real-time package tracking, while education institutions notify students about admissions, exams, and counseling slots. Each of these use cases demonstrates why the API is not just a messaging tool but a channel that drives operational efficiency and customer trust.

Final Thoughts

The choice between WhatsApp Business App and WhatsApp Business API is ultimately about ambition. The app serves as a starting point for micro and small businesses that handle limited customer interactions from one phone. The API, however, is the enterprise-grade backbone that ensures compliance, automates engagement, and integrates seamlessly with CRM, analytics, and marketing automation tools. For Indian enterprises that value trust, scale, and measurable ROI, the API is not an optional upgrade  it is the foundation of modern customer communication.

So, which one do you need?

  • If you’re just starting out or running a small business alone, the WhatsApp Business App is a great first step.
  • If your business is growing or there are additional features you need, now is the time to switch to the WhatsApp Business API and Times Mobile can make that switch easy and smooth.

No matter the size of your business, WhatsApp is a powerful way to reach your customers. Choose the tool that fits your needs today and be ready to grow tomorrow.

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Automate Customer Support Using a WhatsApp Chatbot https://timesmobile.in/automate-customer-support-with-whatsapp-chatbot/ https://timesmobile.in/automate-customer-support-with-whatsapp-chatbot/#respond Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:11:55 +0000 https://staging.timesmobile.in/?p=22013 Today, customers expect fast replies when they reach out to businesses, especially on platforms like WhatsApp. If someone messages your business and doesn’t get a response quickly, they might leave and never come back.
Your support team may be doing their best, but if they’re dealing with too many chats or answering the same questions over and over again, they’ll get overwhelmed. That’s where automation can help.

India has emerged as the largest market for WhatsApp, with more than 700 million active users relying on it for daily communication. For businesses, this dominance is not just about reach, but about behavior  Indian customers increasingly prefer to engage with brands over messaging rather than through emails or phone calls. This shift makes WhatsApp chatbots the most natural extension of customer service, ensuring instant availability and scalable engagement. Enterprises that delay this transition risk falling behind, as customers expect real-time responses and personalized journeys across every interaction.

At Times Mobile, the top CPaaS provider, we help businesses in India and across the world use WhatsApp to handle customer support in a smarter, faster way. By using a WhatsApp chatbot, you can automate common questions, respond 24/7, and help your support team focus on more important tasks.
Let’s take a look at how this works and why it matters for your business.

Why Use WhatsApp for Customer Support?

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world. People already use it every day to talk with friends, family, and even businesses.
Since your customers are already on WhatsApp, it makes sense to offer support there too. It’s quick, simple, and easy to use. But handling every message by hand can be difficult, especially if your business is growing. That’s where a WhatsApp chatbot comes in. It can reply to customers instantly and help solve their problems without needing a human agent every time.

How WhatsApp Chatbots Can Help?

Enterprises that adopt WhatsApp chatbots have reported a significant reduction in wait times, with average response times dropping from several minutes to under 30 seconds. This speed directly improves customer satisfaction scores, as customers value instant acknowledgment of their queries. In addition, automation allows businesses to handle high volumes of queries without adding linear headcount, reducing support costs by up to 60%. Case studies in India’s eCommerce and BFSI sectors show that automated WhatsApp interactions also drive measurable business growth  with up to 25% more repeat purchases in retail and reduced fraud-related losses in banking through proactive alerts.

A powerful WhatsApp chatbot is not just about the conversation flow but about how it integrates into an enterprise’s existing systems. Businesses using the Cloud API or BSP-hosted APIs can connect the chatbot with their CRM and ticketing platforms to ensure every query is logged, tracked, and resolved within the same ecosystem. For example, when a customer reports an issue, the chatbot collects key details, assigns a case ID, and escalates it only if required  ensuring agent time is focused on complex queries. This orchestration prevents customers from repeating themselves and provides agents with full context, resulting in faster resolutions and better first-contact success rates.

Here are some key ways WhatsApp automation can make your customer support better:

1. Faster Replies

People don’t like waiting. A chatbot can answer questions right away, even at night or on weekends. No more long wait times for your customers.

2. Less Work for Your Team

Your support agents do not have to answer the same questions throughout the day. The chatbot can handle tasks such as checking order status, resetting passwords, or providing information on products. It saves time and lets your team focus on more challenging issues that require human intervention.

3. Lower Costs

Increasing the number of support agents may also be costly. Using automation can serve an even larger number of customer inquiries without the added expense of hiring more agents. You will save money while still providing excellent service.

4. More Consistent Support

When a chatbot handles routine conversations, you get the same helpful responses consistently every time. This makes your customer service more reliable and professional.

The future of enterprise customer support in India is being shaped by automation, and WhatsApp chatbots stand at the center of this transformation. They deliver faster service, reduce operational costs, and create consistent customer experiences at scale. With advanced integration, real-time analytics, and compliance-ready workflows, businesses are not just automating support but redefining it. WhatsApp chatbots have moved beyond being an optional tool  they are now the backbone of enterprise communication strategies. Companies that act today will build stronger customer relationships, achieve higher lifetime value, and secure a lasting competitive edge in the Indian market.

Extra Features

When you use Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business platform, you get more than just a basic chatbot. Here are a few extra features we offer:

Smart Chat Flows

Instead of giving short replies, your chatbot can lead the customer through a step-by-step process. For example, it can help them place an order, check a refund status, or get in touch with the right department.

Automatic Feedback Collection

You can ask customers for feedback right after a problem is solved. The chatbot sends a short survey on WhatsApp, which makes it easier for people to reply. This helps you learn what’s working and what needs to improve.

Help for your team

Your support team can also make use of the chatbot to better meet their needs when it comes to working faster. For example, your support team may ask the chatbot to find customer details or past chat histories. This saves time and helps them provide better answers.

CRM Integration

All of your customer conversations can be saved directly into your system automatically. You will never lose a conversation, and the entire history will be available to your team when the customer reaches out again.

Why Does This Matters?

According to a study by Zendesk, 73% of customers will switch to a different company after several bad service experiences. So giving fast, helpful, and reliable support isn’t just nice but it’s necessary for your business to grow.
When your support runs smoothly, customers stay happy. And happy customers are more likely to return, buy again, and recommend you to others.

Enterprises that invest in WhatsApp chatbots are increasingly focused on measurable outcomes. The most common KPIs include first-contact resolution (FCR), escalation rates, customer satisfaction (CSAT), and average handling time (AHT). Reports from Indian enterprises show that chatbot automation reduces escalation rates by up to 40% and lifts CSAT by as much as 25% within the first year of deployment. Cost-per-resolution also falls significantly because automation eliminates the dependency on large agent teams for repetitive queries. More importantly, WhatsApp chatbots provide rich conversational data that feeds back into CRM systems, enabling predictive insights and more personalized future interactions. This creates a cycle where every conversation not only resolves a customer issue but also improves the brand’s understanding of its audience.

Get Started with Times Mobile’s WhatsApp Business API:

At Times Mobile, we’ve made it easy to use WhatsApp for customer support. We are trusted by businesses across India and around the world for our secure, reliable, and simple solutions.
Whether you’re a small business or a growing company, we’ll help you:

  • Set up your WhatsApp chatbot
  • Automate common support questions
  • Reduce your team’s workload
  • Save time and money
  • Improve the customer experience

Ready to serve your customers faster and better? Let’s make it happen, get in touch with Times Mobile and start automating your customer support today.

Conclusion

Looking ahead, the role of WhatsApp chatbots in customer service will continue to expand with the integration of advanced AI. Generative AI models are making conversations more human-like, enabling businesses to manage even complex support scenarios without frustrating customers. The future also points to voice-enabled chatbots within WhatsApp, allowing customers to use natural speech instead of typing. For enterprises, the convergence of WhatsApp with omnichannel platforms means a single customer identity can be tracked seamlessly across SMS, RCS, and WhatsApp interactions, providing unified analytics and governance. In India, where customer expectations for immediacy are higher than global averages, these advancements will not just improve efficiency — they will define which brands lead in customer trust and loyalty.

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