Meta Launches New AI Feature: WhatsApp Set to Boost Earnings for Merchants

WhatsApp has launched a Business AI feature in India. Now, small businesses can leverage AI to provide automated responses to customers, manage orders, and drive sales directly within WhatsApp chats.

WhatsApp has unveiled a major AI feature for small business owners in India—one that could completely transform the way they operate. The company has introduced a new ‘Business AI’ feature for the WhatsApp Business app. With this tool, small businesses can now answer customer queries around the clock, manage orders, and boost their sales. Notably, this requires no separate software or technical setup. WhatsApp’s new AI system will also function in various Indian languages, a capability expected to provide a significant boost to local businesses.

What Can WhatsApp Business AI Do?

WhatsApp’s new AI tool will act as a virtual assistant for small business owners. It will automatically respond to customer inquiries. Business owners can input information regarding their products, pricing, discounts, delivery details, and services; the AI ​​will then independently provide accurate information to customers.
The company has stated that, in the near future, this feature will also support UPI payments directly within WhatsApp chats. This means customers will be able to make payments seamlessly while chatting. However, if a query proves too complex, business owners can step in to handle the conversation personally.

Why Is This Feature Important for Small Businesses?

Millions of small businesses in India rely on WhatsApp to stay connected with their customers. Often, orders are missed due to late-night messages or an overwhelming volume of inquiries. The new AI feature has been introduced specifically to address this challenge.
According to Ravi Garg, Director of Business Messaging at Meta India, small businesses typically operate with limited resources, making it difficult to provide immediate responses to every customer. AI can bridge this gap and ensure that the business remains continuously active and responsive.

AI Boosts Sales: Business Owners Share the Benefits

According to a report by the Deccan Chronicle, several businesses that have already begun utilizing this WhatsApp feature have already witnessed its benefits firsthand. Soil Concept, a plant-based personal care brand, reported that late-night inquiries previously went unanswered; however, thanks to the availability of 24×7 support, their conversion rate has now reached between 80 and 90 percent.
Meanwhile, The Purple Sunset—a customized gifting business—claimed that with the aid of AI, they have started receiving an additional 6 to 7 orders daily. According to the company, their sales have witnessed an increase of approximately 40 percent.

Support Available in Indian Languages

WhatsApp has designed this AI feature specifically with the Indian market in mind. It will function in several Indian languages, including Hindi. Consequently, businesses operating in smaller cities and local markets stand to benefit directly from this initiative.

Which Businesses Will Receive This Feature?

Currently, this feature is being rolled out to small and medium-sized businesses that utilize the WhatsApp Business app and meet the company’s specified eligibility criteria. Over the coming weeks, it will be made available to a wider base of business users.