The two core formats are reply buttons, which offer up to three predefined replies, and list messages, which open a menu of up to 10 rows spread over up to 10 sections. Other interactive types include call-to-action URL buttons, media carousels and location requests.
Tapping is faster and less error-prone than typing, which is why interactive messages are the backbone of chatbot menus, order flows, and quick surveys: no typos to parse, no ambiguity about intent.
Interactive messages are non-template messages: they can only be sent inside an open 24-hour customer service window, and they count as service messages for billing. Outside the window, similar interactivity comes from template buttons, and richer multi-step experiences are built with WhatsApp Flows.
