# WhatsApp group chats

Source: https://pozy.ai/help/messaging/whatsapp-groups

## Before you start

- The number must run as **Cloud API only**. Numbers kept in the WhatsApp Business app cannot use groups. See [Set up WhatsApp](https://pozy.ai/help/messaging/whatsapp-setup).
- Meta must mark the number as an official business account. Open the number's **Settings** from the **WhatsApp** page and check **Official business account** under **Number status**.

## Do it in the dashboard

1. Open **WhatsApp**, then **Groups**, and choose **New group**.
2. Type a **Name** and, if you like, a **Description**.
3. Decide on **Approve people who use the invite link**. Off lets them straight in. On makes them wait for you.
4. Choose **Create group**.
5. Copy the **Invite link** and share it. You can also add numbers yourself with **Add people**.
6. If approval is on, open the group to see who is waiting. Let them in, or choose **Reject**.

## Talk in the group

The group shows up in your [Inbox](https://pozy.ai/help/inbox/dms) once someone sends the first message in it. You cannot open the chat yourself first. So when you share the link, ask people to say hello.

After that, you reply like in any chat. Everyone in the group sees your message.

## Or ask your AI

> Create a WhatsApp group called Wholesale partners. People must wait for my approval to join. Give me the invite link.

## Good to know

- **8 people per group, in total.** This is Meta's limit, and it counts everyone in the group. Adding people in several rounds does not get past it.
- **Groups are not mailing lists.** To send the same message to many people one by one, use a [broadcast](https://pozy.ai/help/automations/broadcasts).
- A number can own up to 10,000 groups.
- Creating a new invite link turns off the old one right away.
- **Delete group** removes it from WhatsApp for every person in it. This cannot be undone.
- Group messages reach your [workflows](https://pozy.ai/help/automations/workflows) like any other message.
- Group messages count toward your monthly messages like any other. There is no extra fee for groups.

**Next:** [WhatsApp calling and the business agent](https://pozy.ai/help/messaging/whatsapp-calling)