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How to use interactive messages in Wati

Updated this week

Summary

Interactive messages help businesses interact more easily on WhatsApp. Often used in chatbots, they guide users through conversations with a clear, structured layout. This improved readability and ease of use typically results in better engagement and higher response rates.

Instructions

For a visual walkthrough of interactive messages, watch this short video:

Types of Interactive Messages

Reply buttons

Reply buttons let users select from up to three predefined options in response to a message. Instead of typing a reply, they can simply tap a choice, making interactions faster and more convenient. This format works similarly to template messages with quick replies and is ideal for simple, decision-based actions.

Best use cases:

  • Selecting recharge options

  • Choosing payment methods

  • Managing booking preferences

  • Updating personal details

Example Layout:

List messages

List messages display a menu with up to ten selectable options, allowing users to easily browse choices and respond quickly. This format is ideal for organizing information and guiding users through a structured conversation flow.

Best use cases:

  • Displaying a service menu

  • Offering booking time slots

  • Sharing customer support FAQs

  • Navigating a tutorial or step-by-step menu

Example Layout:

When expanded, the menu displays multiple options for users to choose from, creating a smooth and interactive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General questions

1. What are interactive messages in WhatsApp?

Interactive messages are structured message formats that guide users through conversations using tappable options, making replies faster and easier than typing.

2. Why should I use interactive messages?

They improve readability, simplify user choices, and typically lead to better engagement and higher response rates.

3. Where are interactive messages commonly used?

They are often used in chatbots to guide users through step-by-step conversations or decision-based flows.

Reply buttons

4. What are reply buttons?

Reply buttons allow users to choose from predefined responses by tapping an option instead of typing a message.

5. How many reply buttons can I add to one message?

You can add up to three reply buttons per message.

6. When should I use reply buttons?

They work best for simple decisions such as selecting recharge options, choosing payment methods, managing bookings, or updating personal details.

List messages

7. What are list messages?

List messages display a menu of options that users can expand and select from, helping organize multiple choices in one place.

8. How many options can a list message include?

A list message can include up to ten selectable options.

9. When should I use list messages instead of reply buttons?

Use list messages when you need to present many options, such as service menus, booking slots, FAQs, or step-by-step navigation.

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