Before you start
What happens to my WhatsApp?
Nothing changes. Your app keeps working. Think of it like adding a smart assistant who can also see and reply to your customer messages — but your phone still works the same way. Your customers message the same number as before and won't notice any difference.
1 Visit the Ant Method Onboarding Page
Open merchant.theantmethod.com/onboarding in your browser. You'll see the Ant Method connection screen with a green "Connect WhatsApp Assistant" button.
2 Log In with Facebook
A Facebook popup will appear asking you to confirm your identity. Click "Continue as [Your Name]" to authorize The Ant Method. This doesn't let Ant Method post to Facebook — it only connects your WhatsApp Business account.
3 Review Permissions and Get Started
You'll see a screen explaining what permissions you're sharing with The Ant Method — specifically WhatsApp Business account access to send and receive messages. Click "Get Started" to proceed.
4 Select Your Setup Method
Choose "Connect your existing WhatsApp Business app". This is the coexistence method — you keep full access to your WhatsApp Business app and can continue using it normally. Don't select "Start with a new WhatsApp phone number" unless you want a separate number.
5 Select Your Business Portfolio
Pick your verified Meta Business Portfolio from the dropdown. Look for the one marked "Verified" — that's the business you set up in the previous guide. If you have multiple businesses, make sure you select the right one.
6 Connect Your WhatsApp Number
Select the country code (India +91) and enter the phone number registered in your WhatsApp Business App. This is the number your customers already message you on. Click "Next" to complete the connection.
✓ You're Connected!
That's it — you're all set up. Here's what happens now:
- ✓ Customer messages flow to your Ant Method dashboard
- ✓ Auto-replies activate based on your settings
- ✓ New leads appear in your dashboard automatically
- ✓ Your WhatsApp Business App continues to work as before
Haven't set up Meta Business yet? Complete that first.
Go to Meta Business Setup Guide