Introduction
Spur allows businesses to make the most of WhatsApp's Business API by creating automated chat flows, providing better customer support, and increasing sales. When you're building your automated chat flows in Spur's Chat Automation Builder, it's important to adhere to the allowed file formats for templates as per Meta's guidelines (formerly known as Facebook). In this article, we will delve into the allowed file formats for all types of WhatsApp templates you can use on Spur.
Message Template Guidelines :-
https://developers.facebook.com/docs/whatsapp/message-templates/guidelines/
Text Templates
For text-based WhatsApp templates, no specific file format is needed. You can directly input the text into the Spur Chat Automation Builder to create text-based automated flows. For text-based uploads, we accept .txt and .csv files.
Media Templates
Images
Allowed File Formats: JPG, JPEG, PNG
Maximum File Size: 5MB
Guidelines: The aspect ratio must be between 1:1 and 16:9.
Videos
Allowed File Formats: MP4
Maximum File Size: 16MB
Guidelines: The aspect ratio must be between 1:1 and 16:9.
Documents
Allowed File Formats: PDF, DOC, DOCX, PPT, PPTX, XLS, XLSX
Maximum File Size: 100MB
Guidelines: The document should not contain any malicious code.
Buttons and Quick Replies
Buttons and Quick Replies are a special category of templates that allow you to embed CTAs. They don’t require any specific file format. You should adhere to the guidelines set by Meta for the text limit and the number of buttons allowed in a single template.
WhatsApp Catalog & Cart Checkout Link
No specific file format is required for WhatsApp Catalog & Cart Checkout Link. However, for product images, the formats should be JPEG, JPG, or PNG.
Comment Automation & Tailored Abandoned Checkout
These features deal primarily with text and, hence, do not have any specific file format requirements. However, any embedded media in messages should adhere to the aforementioned media guidelines.
Spur Pixel
For tracking the customer journey, no additional files are required to be uploaded. The pixel will be automatically integrated with your brand's website.
What are the character limits with Media Message Templates?
Most of the templates are getting rejected because the characters exceed the actual character limits.
These are the character limits applied to message templates:
Header
· Caption is limited to 256 characters, text is limited to 60 characters.
Body
· For media message templates, these cannot exceed 1024 characters, while standard templates are limited to 4096 characters.
· When requesting the template the body is restricted to 1024 characters (parameters {{n}} count as 1 character).
Footer
· Limited to 60 characters Buttons
· Caption is limited to 20 characters, while payload for the quick replies is 256 characters.
Tips for Best Practices
Compression: Consider compressing media files to fit the allowed maximum size without losing quality.
Resolution: Use high-quality media to improve engagement and customer experience.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent file format for all your uploads to streamline your workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the maximum file size for image templates on WhatsApp?
The maximum file size for image templates is 5MB.
Can I use animated GIFs in my WhatsApp templates?
No, animated GIFs are not supported as per Meta's guidelines.
How many buttons can I include in a Button template?
As per Meta's guidelines, you can include up to 3 buttons in a single WhatsApp template.
What types of documents can I send via WhatsApp?
You can send PDF, DOC, DOCX, PPT, PPTX, XLS, and XLSX files via WhatsApp. The maximum file size is 100MB.
Can I use Spur Tables for tracking customer conversations?
Yes, Spur Tables provide a dedicated database for tracking each automated flow, conversions, and customer journey.
How do I adhere to Meta's guidelines for text templates?
Meta's guidelines stipulate that you should avoid using promotional language and you should be clear and concise in your messaging.
Is it possible to use emojis in text templates?
Yes, emojis are supported in text templates.
What is the Spur Pixel and do I need to upload any files for it?
The Spur Pixel tracks customer journeys after they link to your brand's website. No additional files are needed for its integration.
What are the allowed formats for importing and exporting data in Spur Tables?
You can import data in CSV, XLS, and XLSX formats. Data can be exported in CSV format.
Can I use different file formats for WhatsApp Catalog & Cart Checkout Links?
For product images in WhatsApp Catalog & Cart Checkout Links, you can use JPEG, JPG, or PNG formats.
Conclusion
By adhering to these guidelines, you ensure that your automated workflows and customer communications run smoothly without any hitches. Following Meta’s guidelines not only enhances the user experience but also helps you adhere to best practices set by the platform.
For any additional questions or support, feel free to reach out to our support team.
Last Updated: October 2023