Broadcast list

A broadcast list is the WhatsApp feature that sends the same message to several contacts at once, but delivers each copy inside the individual conversation. Whoever receives it does not see the other recipients and replies privately — the opposite of a group, where everyone sees each other and everyone reads everyone else's reply.

Why a message can fail to arrive

The recipient only receives the message if they have your number saved in their contacts. It does not matter that you have their number saved: the condition runs the other way. Check that condition before looking for a bug in the list. Having your number saved is a requirement, not a delivery guarantee.

That is why a broadcast list works well with long-time customers and poorly with a new lead from an ad. If you need to reach someone who never saved you, another path is needed.

List, group and bulk sending are not the same thing

The limits nobody reads before building the list

• 256 contacts per list. A bigger base requires splitting into several lists and sending one at a time, by hand.
• No real personalization. The text is the same for everyone; there is no name field auto-filled.
• Manual reply management. Define who follows up on each reply, without confusing messages sent with sales.
• Depends on the phone. A powered-off device, dead battery, or no internet, and nothing goes out.
• The reply lands in the regular inbox, mixed with the day's support.

How to create a list

On Android, open Chats, the options menu and Broadcast lists; choose the contacts and confirm. On iPhone, follow the broadcast list option available in the app. Menu names can vary by version.

The WhatsApp Help Center states that lists are not supported on Web, Windows or Mac, and that some countries may have a monthly limit being rolled out gradually. Check the notice shown on your account.

When to consider a campaign platform

A broadcast list is a relationship tool, not a campaign one. When it turns into a weekly promotion to a cold base, the result is reports: every tap on Block or Report feeds the spam signal that leads to a number ban. Track replies and respect anyone who no longer wants to receive messages.

If the goal is reaching thousands of people with a name, segment and a record of what went out, the path is the official API with approved templates — consider the opt-in rules, applicable costs and Meta's policies. The official connection does not guarantee delivery or prevent penalties for breaking the rules.