What is WhatsApp coexistence mode and when should I use it?

Coexistence mode lets you connect your WhatsApp Business number to CitaFlow without giving up the official mobile app. For most businesses, it is the best option to start with.

What coexistence means

With this mode:

• You keep using WhatsApp Business on your phone.
• You connect that same number to CitaFlow.
• You can still review conversations manually.
• The chatbot can handle messages according to your setup.

It is a way to combine automation with manual control.

When it is the right choice

It is usually the best option if:

• You want to keep using your phone as usual
• You are still testing automation
• You want a manual fallback option
• Your team needs direct visibility into chats

Alternative: full connection without coexistence

There is a more restrictive setup where the number becomes more tightly connected to the external integration and you lose part of the normal mobile-app experience. That can be useful in some cases, but it is usually not the best starting point.

Important limitation: WhatsApp calls

In coexistence mode, Meta may restrict certain features. One of the most important is that WhatsApp calls are not always available for automation.

That is why many businesses choose to:

• use WhatsApp only for chat
• route calls to their regular phone number
• disable WhatsApp calls if they create confusion

Practical recommendation

If you want to automate WhatsApp bookings without losing control of the channel, start with coexistence. Later, if your operation changes and you need a different level of integration, you can reassess.

In short: coexistence is the most flexible way to begin because it preserves the official app while adding automation without forcing you to give up full control of the channel.

To connect your number step by step, follow the full guide: https://citaflow.com/en/help/chatbot-ai/whatsapp-coexistence