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WhatsApp Template Message Categories Explained

2026-03-05 · SthirWA Team

Utility, marketing, authentication, and service templates — what each category means and when to use it.

Utility templates

Order updates, appointment reminders, payment due notices tied to a user action. Lower conversation cost than marketing in many regions.

Marketing templates

Promotions and re-engagement. Requires opt-in. Subject to Meta review and marketing conversation pricing.

Authentication templates

OTP and login codes. Use dedicated authentication category for best deliverability.