WhatsApp has transformed digital communication with features designed to make messaging faster and more convenient. One such powerful yet often overlooked tool is the Click-to-Chat feature. Introduced in 2018, this functionality allows users to start a conversation with anyone on WhatsApp without saving their phone number in the device’s contact list.
Whether you are a business owner connecting with customers or an individual reaching out for the first time, Click-to-Chat simplifies the process. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, how to create links, and how brands can leverage the “Chat on WhatsApp” button effectively.
What Is WhatsApp Click-to-Chat?
The Click-to-Chat feature enables users to initiate a WhatsApp conversation directly through a custom link. As long as you know the recipient’s phone number and they have an active WhatsApp account, you can instantly open a chat window without adding the number to your address book.
This feature works seamlessly across:
- Android smartphones
- iOS devices
- WhatsApp Web
Once the link is clicked, the chat window opens automatically, allowing immediate communication.
How to Create a WhatsApp Click-to-Chat Link
Creating a Click-to-Chat link is simple. The link must follow this format:
https://wa.me/PhoneNumber
Important guidelines:
- Enter the phone number in international format.
- Do not include zeros, plus signs (+), brackets, or dashes.
Correct example:
https://wa.me/1XXXXXXXXXX
Incorrect example:
https://wa.me/+001-(XXX)XXXXXXX
When someone clicks the correctly formatted link, WhatsApp opens a direct chat window with the specified number.
How to Create a Click-to-Chat Link with a Pre-Filled Message
Businesses and professionals can further personalize communication by adding a pre-written message. This message automatically appears in the chat text field when the link is opened.
Use the following structure:
https://wa.me/PhoneNumber?text=URLencodedMessage
The message must be URL-encoded (spaces replaced with %20, etc.).
Example:
https://wa.me/1XXXXXXXXXX?text=I'm%20interested%20in%20your%20car%20for%20sale
You can also create a general message link without specifying a phone number:
https://wa.me/?text=URLencodedMessage
Example:
https://wa.me/?text=I'm%20inquiring%20about%20the%20apartment%20listing
After clicking such a link, users can choose from their contact list to send the pre-typed message.
What Is the “Chat on WhatsApp” Button?
For businesses aiming to boost engagement, WhatsApp provides an official Chat on WhatsApp button. This branded button helps companies maintain consistency and build trust among customers.
Key details:
- Available in green and white color themes
- Comes in small, medium, and large sizes
- Currently offered only in English
To ensure brand authenticity and recognition, businesses must:
- Use the button design exactly as provided
- Avoid modifying colors, text, or structure
- Download and use the latest official version
- Place the button in a clearly visible and readable location
Where Can You Use the Chat on WhatsApp Button?
Businesses can strategically position the button across multiple digital platforms, including:
- Desktop landing pages
- Contact pages
- Mobile applications
- Mobile website versions
- Third-party website templates
By embedding the button using official HTML code (SVG or PNG formats), companies can encourage customers to initiate instant conversations.
Why Click-to-Chat Matters for Users and Businesses
The Click-to-Chat feature eliminates friction in communication. Users can reach out quickly without cluttering their contact list, while businesses can create direct messaging funnels from websites, advertisements, or social media platforms.
For small businesses, freelancers, and customer service teams, this feature helps:
- Improve response rates
- Simplify lead generation
- Enhance customer convenience
- Build direct communication channels
In today’s fast-paced digital ecosystem, minimizing steps between interest and interaction can significantly impact engagement and conversions.
