# Coexistence

Coexistence is a WhatsApp capability that lets a business use the same phone number on the WhatsApp Business App and on the API at the same time, instead of choosing one or the other.

Source: https://getkanal.com/whatsapp-marketing-glossary/coexistence  
Last updated: 2026-10-08

Historically, a number lived in one place: migrating to the API meant giving up the app, and with it the habit of answering chats from a phone. Coexistence removes that trade-off by letting both run side by side on a single number.

In a coexistence setup, chats and contacts sync between the app and the API platform. A small team can keep replying from the familiar app while software handles campaigns, automations, and analytics on the same number.

Coexistence is rolled out through Cloud API onboarding with participating providers, and eligibility depends on the number and the market. Some capabilities remain specific to one side, so it is worth checking current limitations before connecting.

## Go deeper: articles

- [WhatsApp Business App vs API: Which One for Your Store?](https://getkanal.com/blog/whatsapp-business-app-vs-api-comparison): WhatsApp Business app vs API for online stores: costs per message, linked devices, broadcasts, automation, keeping your number and when to switch.
- [WhatsApp Business API: What It Is, Costs and Setup (2026)](https://getkanal.com/blog/whatsapp-business-api-guide): The WhatsApp Business API explained: Cloud API, templates, webhooks, per-message costs, messaging limits and the three ways to get access.
- [WhatsApp Business Web: Login, QR Code & Desktop App (2026)](https://getkanal.com/blog/whatsapp-business-web-desktop-guide): Open WhatsApp Business Web in 30 seconds: QR code login from Chrome or any browser, fix a stuck QR code, link up to 4 devices, and get the Windows or Mac desktop app.

## Related terms

- [WhatsApp Business API](https://getkanal.com/whatsapp-marketing-glossary/whatsapp-business-api)
- [Embedded signup](https://getkanal.com/whatsapp-marketing-glossary/embedded-signup)