Summary
Yes, you can send media files using Wati template messages! Wati supports various media formats, including images (JPEG, PNG), videos (MP4), and documents (PDF). This guide will walk you through the steps to create and send media-based template messages, including how to send dynamic media using variables.
Note: Broadcasts are now Campaigns – same powerful features, updated name!
Instructions
Steps to send media files via Wati Template Messages
1. Upload your media file
Before adding media to your template, you need to upload it to a reliable hosting service. We recommend using a paid hosting service to avoid issues such as large file sizes, high hosting costs, or unexpected deletions from free hosts.
2. Create a Template Message
Log in to Wati and navigate to Campaign > Template Messages.
Click the + New Template Message button to create a new template.
In the template creation form:
Set Header to Media Type.
Select the appropriate media type (Image, Video, or Document).
Enter the URL of the file you uploaded in Step 1.
Fill in the remaining template details as required.
3. Submit and approve your Template
Click Save as Draft.
Submit the template for approval.
Wait for approval (this typically takes a few minutes but may take up to 24 hours).
Once approved, you can send this template message to customers!
Sending dynamic media files in Template Messages
If you need to send dynamic media files, you can use variables in the template header field.
Example:
Add a placeholder variable (e.g.,
{{pdfLink}}) in the header field.When sending the message via API, pass the variable in the request body. API Request Example:
{
"parameters": [
{
"name": "name",
"value": "wati"
},
{
"name": "pdfLink",
"value": "www.linktoinvoice.com/123.pdf"
}
]
}
Need More Help?
Watch this step-by-step tutorial for a detailed walkthrough:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General questions
1. Can I send media files using Wati template messages?
Yes. Wati supports sending media files such as images, videos, and documents through template messages.
2. What media formats are supported?
You can send images (JPEG, PNG), videos (MP4), and documents (PDF).
3. Are broadcasts and campaigns different?
No. Broadcasts are now called Campaigns. The functionality remains the same.
Creating and approving media templates
4. Do I need to upload the media file before creating a template?
Yes. You must upload the media file to a hosting service and use its URL in the template.
5. Why is a paid hosting service recommended?
Paid hosting reduces the risk of file size limits, broken links, or unexpected deletions that can happen with free hosting services.
6. Where do I create a media-based template in Wati?
Go to Campaign > Template Messages and click + New Template Message.
7. Do media template messages require approval?
Yes. All media templates must be submitted and approved before they can be sent.
Dynamic media
8. Can I send dynamic media files in template messages?
Yes. You can use variables in the template header and pass the media URL dynamically when sending the message via API.
9. When can I send the media template message?
You can start sending it as soon as the template is approved.