WhatsApp template messages are powerful for business-initiated communication, but there are specific rules about including media like documents, images, or videos. SMSGatewayCenter helps you create compliant templates while maximizing their impact. Here’s what you need to know about attaching media to WhatsApp template messages:
Can You Attach Media to WhatsApp Template Messages? #
- Message Body: No, you cannot directly attach a document, image, or video in the message body of a standard WhatsApp template message. The body must be text-based, limited to 1024 characters, and can include letters, digits, special characters, emojis, and WhatsApp-supported formatting (e.g., bold, italic).
- Header Section: Yes, you can include media (documents, images, or videos) in the header of certain template types, such as Interactive templates with buttons. This allows you to enhance your message visually while keeping the body text-based.
Supported Media Types for Template Headers #
When using an Interactive template (e.g., Interactive – Image with Buttons, Interactive – Video with Buttons, Interactive – Document with Buttons), you can add media in the header. Here are the supported media types and their requirements:
Documents:
- Supported formats: PDF, DOC(X), PPT(X), XLS(X).
- File size: Up to 100MB.
- Example: Attach a product catalog PDF in the header.
Images:
- Supported formats: JPG, JPEG, PNG.
- File size: Up to 5MB.
- Example: Add a product image in the header to showcase an offer.
Videos:
- Supported formats: MP4, 3GPP.
- File size: Up to 16MB.
- Example: Include a short promotional video in the header.
How to Add a Document, Image, or Video to a Template on SMSGatewayCenter #
Access the Template Messages Section
- Log in to your SMSGatewayCenter account.
- Navigate to the WhatsApp Business API section, then go to the Template Messages tab.
Create an Interactive Template with Media
- Click Add New Template.
- Select the Marketing or Utility category, depending on your use case.
- Choose the template type based on the media you want to include:
- Interactive – Document with Buttons (for documents).
- Interactive – Image with Buttons (for images).
- Interactive – Video with Buttons (for videos).
- Fill in the details:
- Template Name: Use a descriptive name (e.g., “product_catalog_may2025”).
- Language: Select the language (e.g., English).
- Header Media: Upload the document, image, or video:
- For documents: Upload a file (e.g., PDF) or provide an external URL (up to 100MB).
- For images: Upload a file (e.g., JPG) or provide a URL (up to 5MB).
- For videos: Upload a file (e.g., MP4) or provide a URL (up to 16MB).
- Message Body: Write the text (e.g., “Check out our latest catalog! Choose an option below.”).
- Buttons: Add up to 3 quick reply buttons or 2 call-to-action (CTA) buttons (e.g., “View More,” “Contact Us”).
Submit for Approval
- Review the template to ensure it meets WhatsApp’s guidelines (e.g., correct file formats, message body under 1024 characters).
- Submit the template for WhatsApp approval via SMSGatewayCenter. Approval typically takes 24-48 hours.
Send the Template Message
- Once approved, go to the Compose section in your dashboard.
- Select the approved template with the media header.
- Replace any dynamic variables (e.g., customer name).
- Choose your recipients and send the message.
Best Practices for Using Media in Templates #
- Ensure High Quality: Use clear, high-quality media (e.g., images at 800x800px resolution) to make a strong impression.
- Keep File Sizes Within Limits: Stick to the size limits (documents: 100MB, images: 5MB, videos: 16MB) to avoid upload errors.
- Test Before Sending: Use SMSGatewayCenter’s Test feature to preview the template and ensure the media displays correctly.
- Obtain Opt-In: For Marketing templates, ensure customers have opted in to receive messages to comply with WhatsApp’s policies.
Why Use Media in Template Headers? #
- Enhance Engagement: Adding a document, image, or video makes your message more visually appealing and engaging.
- Showcase Products: Use media to highlight products, offers, or services directly in the message.
- Drive Actions: Combine media with buttons (e.g., “Shop Now”) to encourage users to take action.
While you can’t attach media directly in the message body, using Interactive templates with media headers is a great way to enhance your WhatsApp template messages. For further assistance with creating templates, contact our support team.