Send a WhatsApp Audio Message

Audio-Based Templates

WhatsApp allows two types of messages for a business over APIs: free-form messages and template messages.

  • Template Messages: Meta requires templates to be pre-approved and can include media files such as image, document, and video.

  • Free-Form Messages: Interactive messages that enhance the capability of the WhatsApp channel and help to fulfill the business objective. Audio messages are one of those file types.

    • Once a conversation thread has been opened by the recipient (this occurs when an individual sends a WhatsApp message to the Business’ WhatsApp number), a free-form message can be sent as an interactive message.

    • The thread remains open for a duration of 24 hours and enables the business to reach back to the individual using any of the allowed free-form messages.

Supported Audio Media Formats

WhatsApp has listed the following audio types and their MIME types on their website:

Audio Type
Extension
MIME Type
Max Size

AAC

.aac

audio/aac

16 MB

AMR

.amr

audio/amr

16 MB

MP3

.mp3

audio/mpeg

16MB

Sending Audio Messages

  1. Send a pre-approved message to contacts/fans.

  2. Ask recipients to reply, opening the conversation thread.

  3. Send a follow-up message using the audio-based interactive template.

In your dashboard, combine both messages in a single journey using a Wait Until block.

Creating an Audio Message Journey

Journey structure would be as follows:

  1. Start Block: Begin with an Audience or Trigger start block

  1. Pre-approved Message: Add a message with quick reply buttons

    1. Ask recipients to respond using one of the quick reply options

  2. Wait Until Block: Define wait period and expected response

    1. Suggested: Select quick reply button labels in the “Select Reply” dropdown

  3. Audio Template (Success Path):

    1. Select the Interactive checkbox

    2. Choose an audio-based template

  1. Exit Journey (Failure Path)

    1. Add for recipients who don’t reply within the wait period or give an incorrect response

Our Recommendations

  • Use pre-approved templates to initiate conversations

  • Leverage quick reply buttons for structured responses

  • Set appropriate wait times in the Wait Until block

  • Prepare engaging audio content for interactive templates

  • Test the journey thoroughly before deploying to ensure smooth user experience

  • Ensure correct MIME type of the audio file

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