Quick Answer
To create a media-based WhatsApp template in ChatMitra: Navigate to Manage > Template Message, click "+New", select a category, name your template, choose "Image" type, write your message with placeholders, add sample values, select language, optionally add CTAs, and submit for approval. Once approved, attach media when broadcasting to contacts.
Media limits: Images up to 5 MB (JPEG/PNG), Videos up to 16 MB (MP4/3GPP), Documents up to 100 MB (PDF/DOCX), Stickers up to 100 KB (WEBP).
WhatsApp supports pre-approved Template Messages that include images, videos, files, and stickers. This guide shows how to create and send media-based templates using ChatMitra.
Follow these 11 steps to set up your media template message correctly.
1. Click '+New' to start a new template
Open the Manage section, then select 'Template Message' and click the '+ New' button at the top right corner.
2. Select your Template Category
Choose the category that best fits your message's theme. Options include: Utility (transaction updates like order confirmations), Authentication (security messages like OTP), and Marketing (promotional content).
3. Provide a Template Name
Template Name must be a unique identifier. Use only lowercase letters, numbers, and underscores. Avoid special characters or spaces.
4. Under Template Type, select 'Image'
As this template includes media, choose 'Image' as the template type. Images should be in 16:9 or 1:1 ratio, with a maximum size of 5 MB.
Media File Size Limits
| Type | Size Limit |
|---|---|
| Video | 16 MB |
| Image | 5 MB |
| Document | 100 MB |
| Sticker | 100 KB |
5. Enter the Template Format
Write your template message content here. Include dynamic placeholders like {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}} that customize per recipient. Use asterisks for bold and underscores for italics. Maximum 1024 characters.
6. Add Sample Values
Provide example values for your dynamic placeholders. These samples help WhatsApp review your template and can be updated later when sending.
7. Choose a Template Language
The default is English, but you can select from global or local languages. Each template uses only one language. Create separate templates for multilingual campaigns.
8. Add Call To Action Buttons or Quick Replies (Optional)
Include either Call-to-Action buttons or Quick Replies, but not both. You can add up to 2 CTAs or 3 Quick Replies per template.
9. Submit the Template Message
Review your template carefully for errors. Once submitted, you cannot modify it. Click 'Submit' when ready. Approval typically takes 24-48 hours.
10. Send Your Media Template Message
Go to Contacts, filter your audience, click Broadcast, enter a Campaign Name, select your media template, and attach the media file.
Detailed Media File Requirements
| Media Type | Size Limit | Supported Formats |
|---|---|---|
| Video | 16 MB | MP4, 3GPP |
| Image | 5 MB | JPEG, PNG |
| Document | 100 MB | PDF, DOCX |
| Sticker | 100 KB | WEBP |
11. Press 'Send Now' to dispatch your Media Template
After reviewing your campaign details, press 'Send Now' to deliver your media-based template message to the selected contacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many media templates can I create?
There's no fixed limit, but WhatsApp recommends maintaining under 50 active templates for better management. Archive unused templates monthly.
Can I schedule media template messages?
Yes! ChatMitra allows scheduling with timezone-aware delivery, recipient local time optimization, and automatic marketing message curfew adjustment.
Can I edit a template after submission?
WhatsApp doesn't allow edits post-submission. Always preview templates using the Test Message feature before final submission to avoid rejection.
How long does template approval take?
Approval typically takes 24-48 hours. Marketing templates may require additional review time during peak periods. Authentication templates are usually faster.
Can I use emojis in template messages?
Yes! Emojis can increase engagement by 40%. However, avoid using them in authentication templates to maintain professional consistency and trust.