WhatsApp Business API Integration with RedwoodJS and MessageBird: Complete Developer Guide

Build a production-ready WhatsApp Business API integration into your RedwoodJS application using the MessageBird API (now Bird). This comprehensive guide covers sending outbound WhatsApp messages (including pre-approved template messages), receiving inbound messages via webhooks, database logging with Prisma, and secure deployment patterns.

> Platform Update (February 2024): MessageBird rebranded as "Bird" with aggressive pricing cuts (up to 90% savings on SMS). The legacy MessageBird API and Node.js SDK remain fully functional and supported. For WhatsApp Business API integrations, you can use either the MessageBird platform (dashboard.messagebird.com) or the new Bird platform (app.bird.com). Both platforms support the same API endpoints documented in this guide. See Bird's platform documentation for migration details.

By the end of this guide, you'll have a functional RedwoodJS serverless application that leverages WhatsApp as a customer communication channel – perfect for notifications, support tickets, appointment reminders, and two-factor authentication.

Quick Reference: RedwoodJS WhatsApp Integration

What You'll Build: Full-stack RedwoodJS application with WhatsApp messaging via MessageBird/Bird API

Technologies: RedwoodJS v8, Node.js 20, MessageBird SDK v4.0.1, Prisma ORM, PostgreSQL, GraphQL

Key Components:

• RedwoodJS service for sending WhatsApp messages (text + template messages)
• Serverless function for webhook handling (incoming messages + status updates)
• Prisma schema for message logging and conversation tracking
• Secure webhook signature verification with HMAC SHA-256
• E.164 phone number validation with Zod

Prerequisites: Node.js 20+, Yarn 1.22.21+, MessageBird account, approved WhatsApp Business number

Time to Complete: 45–60 minutes

What is the WhatsApp Business API?

<!-- DEPTH: Section lacks cost comparison and pricing model details (Priority: Medium) --> <!-- GAP: Missing information on API limits and rate limiting (Type: Critical) --> The WhatsApp Business API (officially the WhatsApp Business Platform) enables businesses to send and receive messages programmatically at scale. Unlike the WhatsApp Business app (designed for small businesses), the API supports:

• Customer service conversations with unlimited agents
• Automated notifications (order confirmations, shipping updates, appointment reminders)
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) and OTP delivery
• Template messages for initiating conversations outside the 24-hour window
• Rich media (images, documents, location, contacts)
• Webhook integration for real-time message delivery

MessageBird/Bird as CPaaS Provider: MessageBird (now Bird) acts as a Communication Platform as a Service (CPaaS) provider, simplifying WhatsApp Business API access. They handle Meta's complex onboarding, provide unified APIs across channels (SMS, WhatsApp, Voice), and offer embedded sign-up for faster deployment.

<!-- EXPAND: Could benefit from rate limit specifications and tier comparison table (Type: Enhancement) --> 24-Hour Messaging Window: WhatsApp enforces a customer service window that opens when a user messages your business. During this 24-hour period, you can send any message type freely. Outside this window, you must use pre-approved template messages (called HSM – Highly Structured Messages) to initiate conversations. This policy prevents spam while enabling legitimate business communication.

What Problem Does This Integration Solve?

<!-- GAP: Missing use case examples and ROI considerations (Type: Substantive) --> This integration allows businesses using RedwoodJS applications to leverage WhatsApp – a ubiquitous communication channel – for customer engagement, notifications, support, and potentially two-factor authentication, directly from their application's backend. It abstracts the complexities of the WhatsApp Business API through MessageBird's unified interface.

Project Goals:

• Enable a RedwoodJS application to send WhatsApp messages programmatically via MessageBird.
• Handle both standard text messages and pre-approved WhatsApp Template Messages (HSM).
• Receive incoming WhatsApp messages using MessageBird webhooks.
• Store message history in a database.
• Establish a robust, scalable, and secure integration suitable for production environments.

Problem Solved:

This integration allows businesses using RedwoodJS applications to leverage WhatsApp – a ubiquitous communication channel – for customer engagement, notifications, support, and potentially two-factor authentication, directly from their application's backend. It abstracts the complexities of the WhatsApp Business API through MessageBird's unified interface.

<!-- GAP: Missing comparison with alternative messaging channels (Type: Substantive) --> Technologies Used:

• RedwoodJS: A full-stack, serverless web application framework based on React, GraphQL, and Prisma. Provides structure for API (functions), services, and database interaction. Current version: v8.8.1 (as of January 2025).
• Node.js: The underlying runtime environment for the RedwoodJS API side. Recommended version: Node.js 20 (current LTS, supported until April 2026).
• MessageBird/Bird: A communication Platform as a Service (CPaaS) provider offering APIs for various channels, including WhatsApp. We'll use their Node.js SDK (v4.0.1, last updated 2021–2022 but remains functional) and REST API.
• Prisma: A next-generation ORM for Node.js and TypeScript, used by RedwoodJS for database access and migrations.
• PostgreSQL (or similar): Relational database for storing message logs and potentially conversation state.
• (Optional) ngrok: For exposing local development webhook endpoints to the internet for testing.

System Architecture:

+-----------------+       +-----------------+       +-----------------------+
|   RedwoodJS UI  |------>| RedwoodJS API   |<----->|   PostgreSQL DB       |
| (React Frontend)|       | (GraphQL/Funcs) |       | (Prisma Client)       |
+-----------------+       +--------+--------+       +-----------------------+
                                   |
                                   | (MessageBird SDK / API Calls)
                                   v
+------------------------------------+-------------------------------------+
|                        MessageBird Platform                            |
| +-------------------+      +------------------+      +-----------------+ |
| | WhatsApp API GW   |----->| Outbound Sending |      | Inbound Webhook | |
| +-------------------+      +------------------+      +--------+--------+ |
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------+
       ^                                                       | (Webhook POST)
       | (Messages to/from User)                               |
       v                                                       |
+-----------------+                                            |
| WhatsApp User   |--------------------------------------------+
+-----------------+

<!-- GAP: Missing prerequisites for MessageBird account setup steps (Type: Critical) --> Prerequisites:

• Node.js v20 or later (RedwoodJS requires Node.js 20+; avoid Node.js 21+ for AWS Lambda compatibility) and Yarn 1.22.21+ installed.
• A MessageBird account with access to the WhatsApp Business API channel.
• An approved WhatsApp Business number and channel configured within MessageBird.
• Basic understanding of RedwoodJS concepts (services, functions, Prisma).
• Access to a terminal or command prompt.
• (Optional, for local webhook testing) ngrok installed.

Final Outcome:

By the end of this guide, you will have:

1. A RedwoodJS service capable of sending WhatsApp messages via MessageBird.
2. An API endpoint (Redwood function) to trigger sending messages.
3. A webhook endpoint (Redwood function) to receive incoming messages and status updates from MessageBird.
4. A database schema and logic to log sent and received messages.
5. Configuration for secure handling of API keys and webhook secrets.

How Do You Set Up Your RedwoodJS Project?

<!-- DEPTH: Section lacks troubleshooting guidance for common setup errors (Priority: Medium) --> We'll start with a fresh RedwoodJS project. If you have an existing project, adapt the steps accordingly.

1. Create RedwoodJS Project: Open your terminal and run:

   bash

   yarn create redwood-app ./redwood-messagebird-whatsapp
   cd redwood-messagebird-whatsapp
   

   Follow the prompts (choose JavaScript or TypeScript). This guide will use JavaScript examples, but the concepts are identical for TypeScript.

2. Verify Node/Yarn: Ensure your Node.js and Yarn versions meet RedwoodJS requirements.

   bash

   node -v
   yarn -v
   

<!-- GAP: Missing explanation of environment variable security best practices (Type: Critical) --> 3. Environment Variables: RedwoodJS uses .env files for environment variables. Create one in the project root:

touch .env

Add the following placeholders. You will get the actual values from your MessageBird dashboard later.

# .env
MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY=YOUR_MESSAGEBIRD_LIVE_API_KEY
MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID=YOUR_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID
# Optional, but HIGHLY recommended for webhook security
MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY=YOUR_MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY

• MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY: Your live API access key from the MessageBird Dashboard (Developers -> API access).
• MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID: The unique ID of your configured WhatsApp channel in MessageBird (Channels -> WhatsApp).
• MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY: A secret key you configure in MessageBird webhooks for request signature verification. Generate a strong random string for this.

Important: Add .env to your .gitignore file to avoid committing secrets. RedwoodJS automatically loads .env variables into process.env.

4. Install MessageBird SDK: Add the official MessageBird Node.js SDK to your project's API side dependencies.

   bash

   yarn workspace api add messagebird
   

   This installs the SDK and adds it to api/package.json.

5. Project Structure: RedwoodJS provides a clear structure:

   • api/: Backend code (GraphQL API, serverless functions, services, database).
     • api/src/functions/: Serverless functions triggered via HTTP (our API endpoint and webhook).
     • api/src/services/: Business logic, interacting with external APIs (like MessageBird) and the database.
     • api/db/: Database schema (schema.prisma) and migrations.
   • web/: Frontend React code. (We won't focus heavily on the UI in this guide).

How Do You Design the Database Schema for Message Logging?

<!-- EXPAND: Could benefit from conversation state management patterns (Type: Enhancement) --> We need a way to store message history.

1. Define Prisma Schema: Open api/db/schema.prisma and add a MessageLog model:

   sql

   // api/db/schema.prisma
   
   datasource db {
     provider = "postgresql" // Or your chosen DB provider
     url      = env("DATABASE_URL")
   }
   
   generator client {
     provider      = "prisma-client-js"
     binaryTargets = "native"
   }
   
   // Add this model
   model MessageLog {
     id               String    @id @default(cuid())
     messageBirdId    String?   @unique // MessageBird's message ID - crucial for idempotency and updates
     conversationId   String?   // MessageBird's conversation ID
     channelId        String    // Our MessageBird WhatsApp Channel ID
     status           String    // e.g., 'pending', 'accepted', 'sent', 'delivered', 'received', 'failed'
     direction        String    // 'outgoing' or 'incoming'
     recipient        String    // E.164 format phone number
     sender           String    // E.164 format phone number or Channel ID for outgoing
     messageType      String    // 'text', 'hsm', 'image', 'document', etc.
     content          Json?     // Full message content/payload
     errorCode        Int?      // MessageBird error code if status is 'failed'
     errorDescription String?   // Error details
     createdAt        DateTime  @default(now())
     updatedAt        DateTime  @updatedAt
   
     @@index([recipient]) // Index for faster lookups by recipient
     @@index([conversationId]) // Index for faster lookups by conversation
     @@index([status]) // Index for potentially querying statuses
   }
   
   // Ensure you have your User model or other relevant models if needed
   // model User { ... }
   
   • We use optional fields (?) where data might not always be present (e.g., messageBirdId before sending, errorCode on success).
   • content is stored as JSON to handle various message structures flexibly.
   • The @unique constraint on messageBirdId helps prevent duplicate entries if webhooks are delivered multiple times.
   • Added @@index directives for potentially common query fields.

<!-- GAP: Missing database migration rollback guidance (Type: Substantive) --> 2. Apply Migrations: Generate and apply the database migration.

yarn rw prisma migrate dev --name add_message_log

This creates the SQL migration file and updates your database schema.

3. Prisma Client: RedwoodJS automatically generates and provides the Prisma client instance (db) available in services and functions. We'll use this later to interact with the MessageLog table.

How Do You Send WhatsApp Messages from RedwoodJS?

<!-- DEPTH: Section lacks error handling strategies and retry logic (Priority: High) --> We'll create a RedwoodJS service to encapsulate the logic for sending messages via MessageBird.

1. Generate Service:

   bash

   yarn rw g service whatsapp
   

   This creates api/src/services/whatsapp/whatsapp.js and whatsapp.test.js.

2. Implement Sending Logic: Open api/src/services/whatsapp/whatsapp.js and add the following:

   javascript

   // api/src/services/whatsapp/whatsapp.js
   import { logger } from 'src/lib/logger'
   import { db } from 'src/lib/db'
   
   // Initialize MessageBird client (ensure correct import path if needed)
   // Note: The exact import might differ slightly based on SDK versions. Check SDK docs.
   const messagebird = require('messagebird')(process.env.MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY)
   
   const WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID = process.env.MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID
   
   /**
    * Sends a WhatsApp message via MessageBird.
    * Handles both freeform text (within 24h window) and HSM templates.
    *
    * @param {object} params - Parameters for sending the message.
    * @param {string} params.to - Recipient phone number in E.164 format (e.g., +14155552671).
    * @param {string} params.type - Message type: 'text' or 'hsm'.
    * @param {object} params.content - Message content payload.
    *   - For type 'text': { text: 'Your message content' }
    *   - For type 'hsm': { hsm: { namespace: '...', templateName: '...', language: { code: 'en', policy: 'deterministic' }, params: [{ default: 'value1' }, ...] } }
    *     or using 'components' for media templates as per MessageBird docs.
    * @returns {Promise<object&gt;} - Result object with success status and message data or error.
    */
   export const sendWhatsappMessage = async ({ to, type, content }) =&gt; {
     if (!WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID) {
       logger.error('MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID is not configured.')
       throw new Error('WhatsApp channel ID is missing.')
     }
     if (!process.env.MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY) {
       logger.error('MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY is not configured.')
       throw new Error('MessageBird API Key is missing.')
     }
   
     const payload = {
       to: to,
       from: WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID, // Use channel ID as sender
       type: type,
       content: content,
     }
   
     logger.info({ payload: { ...payload, content: '&lt;<omitted>&gt;' } }, `Attempting to send WhatsApp message to ${to}`) // Avoid logging full content potentially
   
     let logEntryId = null
     try {
       // Pre-log the attempt (optional, but useful for tracking)
       const initialLog = await db.messageLog.create({
         data: {
           channelId: WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID,
           status: 'pending', // Initial status
           direction: 'outgoing',
           recipient: to,
           sender: WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID,
           messageType: type,
           content: content, // Store the intended content
         },
       })
       logEntryId = initialLog.id
       logger.info(`Created initial log entry: ${logEntryId}`)
   
       // Use conversations.send API - preferred for flexibility
       const result = await new Promise((resolve, reject) =&gt; {
         messagebird.conversations.send(payload, (err, response) =&gt; {
           if (err) {
             // Log detailed error information from MessageBird if available
             const errorDetails = err.errors ? JSON.stringify(err.errors) : err.message
             logger.error({ statusCode: err.statusCode, details: errorDetails, payload }, 'MessageBird API error')
             return reject(err)
           }
           logger.info({ response }, 'MessageBird API success response')
           resolve(response)
         })
       })
   
       // Update log entry with MessageBird ID and status (often 'accepted')
       if (result && result.message && result.message.id) {
         await db.messageLog.update({
           where: { id: logEntryId },
           data: {
             messageBirdId: result.message.id,
             // Note: MessageBird's 'send' might return status 'accepted', not 'sent' directly.
             // Actual delivery status comes via webhook.
             status: result.message.status || 'accepted',
             conversationId: result.message.conversationId, // Capture conversation ID if available
             // Store the full response content for reference if needed, or just keep the original intended content
             // content: result,
           },
         })
         logger.info(`Updated log entry ${logEntryId} with MessageBird ID: ${result.message.id}`)
       } else {
          // Handle cases where the response format might differ or lack an ID
          await db.messageLog.update({
            where: { id: logEntryId },
            data: { status: 'sent_api_no_id' }, // Indicate successful API call but no ID returned
          })
          logger.warn({ result }, 'MessageBird send API response did not contain expected message ID.')
       }
   
       return { success: true, data: result }
   
     } catch (error) {
       logger.error({ error: error.message, statusCode: error.statusCode, errors: error.errors, payload }, 'Failed to send WhatsApp message')
   
       // Update log entry with error details if it was created
       if (logEntryId) {
         const errorDescription = error.errors ? JSON.stringify(error.errors) : (error.message || 'Unknown error');
         await db.messageLog.update({
           where: { id: logEntryId },
           data: {
             status: 'failed',
             errorCode: error.statusCode || null, // Attempt to get HTTP status code
             errorDescription: errorDescription.substring(0, 500), // Limit error description length if needed
           },
         })
         logger.info(`Updated log entry ${logEntryId} to failed status.`)
       }
   
       // Rethrow or return structured error
       throw new Error(`Failed to send message: ${error.message}`) // Keep original error context
       // Or: return { success: false, error: error.message, details: error.errors }
     }
   }
   
   // --- Helper functions or other service methods can go here ---
   
   /**
    * Example: Get recent message logs for a specific recipient
    */
   export const getMessageLogsByRecipient = async ({ recipient }) =&gt; {
     logger.debug(`Fetching logs for recipient: ${recipient}`)
     return db.messageLog.findMany({
       where: { recipient: recipient },
       orderBy: { createdAt: 'desc' },
       take: 50,
     })
   }
   

   Explanation:

   • We initialize the messagebird client using the API key from environment variables. Added checks for missing keys.
   • The sendWhatsappMessage function takes the recipient (to), message type ('text' or 'hsm'), and the content payload.
   • It constructs the payload required by the MessageBird conversations.send API endpoint. Crucially, from is set to your MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID.
   • Logging: We log the attempt before calling the API and update the log with the result (success or failure, including the messageBirdId). This ensures traceability even if the API call fails network-wise. Error logging includes details from error.errors.
   • API Call: We use messagebird.conversations.send. The SDK uses callbacks, so we wrap it in a Promise for async/await compatibility.
   • HSM Templates: For type: 'hsm', the content object must match the structure shown in the MessageBird API documentation. You need the namespace and templateName from your approved template in the MessageBird dashboard. Parameter substitution happens via the params array (or components for media templates).
   • Error Handling: A try...catch block handles API errors, logs them (including MessageBird-specific error details), updates the database record to 'failed', and includes error details.
   • The getMessageLogsByRecipient is an example of how to query the logs using Prisma.

How Do You Build the API Endpoint for Message Sending?

<!-- DEPTH: Section lacks authentication implementation examples (Priority: High) --> <!-- GAP: Missing rate limiting implementation guidance (Type: Critical) --> We need an HTTP endpoint to trigger our sendWhatsappMessage service. A RedwoodJS serverless function is perfect for this.

1. Generate Function:

   bash

   yarn rw g function sendWhatsapp
   

   This creates api/src/functions/sendWhatsapp.js.

2. Implement API Endpoint: Open api/src/functions/sendWhatsapp.js and implement the handler:

   javascript

   // api/src/functions/sendWhatsapp.js
   import { logger } from 'src/lib/logger'
   import { sendWhatsappMessage } from 'src/services/whatsapp/whatsapp'
   
   // Input validation library (recommended)
   import { z } from 'zod'
   
   // Zod Schema for input validation:
   const messageSchema = z.object({
     to: z.string().regex(/^\+[1-9]\d{1,14}$/, { message: "Invalid E.164 phone number format" }), // Basic E.164 validation
     type: z.enum(['text', 'hsm']),
     content: z.object({}).passthrough(), // Allow any object structure for content initially
   }).refine(data => {
     if (data.type === 'text') {
       return typeof data.content.text === 'string' && data.content.text.length > 0;
     }
     if (data.type === 'hsm') {
       // Basic check for HSM structure. More specific validation might be needed
       // depending on required HSM fields (namespace, templateName etc.)
       return typeof data.content.hsm === 'object' && data.content.hsm !== null;
     }
     return false; // Should not happen due to enum check, but defensively return false
   }, { message: "Invalid content structure for the specified type" });
   
   
   /**
    * @param {APIGatewayEvent} event - The AWS API Gateway event object.
    * @param {Context} context - The AWS Lambda context object.
    */
   export const handler = async (event, context) => {
     logger.info('Received request to sendWhatsapp function')
   
     // >>&gt; SECURITY CRITICAL &lt;<<
     // In a real application_ implement robust authentication and authorization here.
     // Example checks (adapt to your auth strategy):
     // - Verify a JWT Bearer token from event.headers.authorization
     // - Check RedwoodJS session context if called via GraphQL with @requireAuth
     // - Validate an API key passed in headers
     // If auth fails_ return { statusCode: 401 } or { statusCode: 403 } immediately.
     // const isAuthenticated = await checkAuth(event.headers); // Replace with your actual auth check
     // if (!isAuthenticated) {
     //   logger.warn('Unauthorized attempt to call sendWhatsapp');
     //   return { statusCode: 401_ body: JSON.stringify({ error: 'Unauthorized' }) };
     // }
     // logger.info('Request authorized'); // Log successful authorization
   
     if (event.httpMethod !== 'POST') {
       return { statusCode: 405_ headers: { 'Allow': 'POST' }_ body: 'Method Not Allowed' }
     }
   
     let body
     let validatedData
     try {
       body = JSON.parse(event.body)
       logger.info({ bodyKeys: Object.keys(body) }_ 'Parsed request body') // Avoid logging full body if sensitive
   
       // Validate input using Zod
       const validationResult = messageSchema.safeParse(body);
       if (!validationResult.success) {
         logger.warn({ errors: validationResult.error.flatten().fieldErrors }_ 'Invalid request body')
         return {
           statusCode: 400_
           headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }_
           body: JSON.stringify({ error: 'Invalid input'_ details: validationResult.error.flatten().fieldErrors })
         }
       }
       validatedData = validationResult.data; // Use validated data
   
     } catch (error) {
       logger.error({ error }_ 'Failed to parse request body')
       return { statusCode: 400_ headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }_ body: JSON.stringify({ error: 'Invalid JSON body' }) }
     }
   
     try {
       // Use validated data from Zod
       const result = await sendWhatsappMessage({
         to: validatedData.to_
         type: validatedData.type_
         content: validatedData.content_
       })
   
       logger.info({ messageBirdId: result.data?.message?.id }_ 'Successfully processed sendWhatsapp request')
       return {
         statusCode: 200_ // Or 202 Accepted if processing is truly async beyond the initial API call
         headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }_
         body: JSON.stringify(result)_ // Contains { success: true_ data: ... }
       }
     } catch (error) {
       logger.error({ error: error.message_ statusCode: error.statusCode_ errors: error.errors }_ 'Error calling sendWhatsappMessage service')
       // Avoid leaking internal error details unless necessary
       const responseBody = {
           success: false_
           error: 'Internal server error processing message'_
           // Optionally include a correlation ID for logs
       };
       // Map specific MessageBird errors to user-friendly messages if desired
       if (error.statusCode === 470) { // Example: 24-hour window error
          responseBody.error = 'Cannot send freeform message outside the 24-hour window. Use a template.';
          return { statusCode: 403_ headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }_ body: JSON.stringify(responseBody) };
       }
   
       return {
         statusCode: error.statusCode && error.statusCode &gt;= 400 && error.statusCode &lt; 500 ? error.statusCode : 500_ // Return specific client error codes if available
         headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }_
         body: JSON.stringify(responseBody)_
       }
     }
   }
   

   Explanation:

   • The handler receives standard API Gateway event/context objects.
   • Security: A prominent comment emphasizes the critical need for authentication/authorization. This must be implemented based on your application's specific security model before production use.
   • It expects a POST request with a JSON body.
   • Validation: It now uses zod for robust input validation (phone number format_ type enum_ basic content structure). Invalid requests are rejected with a 400 Bad Request and details.
   • It parses the JSON body and calls the sendWhatsappMessage service using the validated data.
   • It returns a 200 OK response with the service result on success_ or appropriate error codes (400_ 401_ 403_ 405_ 500) on failure. It attempts to map some known errors (like the 24-hour window) to more specific status codes/messages.

<!-- DEPTH: Testing section lacks comprehensive test scenarios (Priority: Medium) --> 3. Testing the Endpoint: Start the development server:

yarn rw dev

Install Zod if you haven't already:

yarn workspace api add zod

Use curl or a tool like Postman to send a request (replace placeholders with your actual test number_ approved template details):

• Text Message (Requires user to have messaged you within 24h):

  bash

  curl -X POST http://localhost:8911/sendWhatsapp \
    -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
    -d '{
          "to": "+14155552671"_
          "type": "text"_
          "content": { "text": "Hello from RedwoodJS via MessageBird!" }
        }'
  

• HSM Template Message (Can initiate conversation): (Replace namespace_ templateName_ and params with your actual approved template)

  bash

  curl -X POST http://localhost:8911/sendWhatsapp \
    -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
    -d '{
          "to": "+14155552671"_
          "type": "hsm"_
          "content": {
            "hsm": {
              "namespace": "your_template_namespace_guid"_
              "templateName": "your_approved_template_name"_
              "language": {
                "policy": "deterministic"_
                "code": "en"
              }_
              "params": [
                { "default": "Customer Name" }_
                { "default": "Order #12345" }
              ]
            }
          }
        }'
  

• HSM Media Template Example (Document): (Replace template details and document URL)

  bash

  curl -X POST http://localhost:8911/sendWhatsapp \
    -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
    -d '{
          "to": "+14155552671"_
          "type": "hsm"_
          "content": {
            "hsm": {
              "namespace": "your_media_template_namespace"_
              "templateName": "your_media_template_name"_
              "language": { "policy": "deterministic"_ "code": "en" }_
              "components": [
                {
                  "type": "header"_
                  "parameters": [
                    {
                      "type": "document"_
                      "document": { "url": "https://www.example.com/your_document.pdf"_ "filename": "optional_filename.pdf" }
                    }
                  ]
                }_
                {
                  "type": "body"_
                  "parameters": [
                    { "type": "text"_ "text": "Param1 Value" }_
                    { "type": "text"_ "text": "Param2 Value" }
                  ]
                }
              ]
            }
          }
        }'
  

Check your terminal logs (api |) and the MessageLog table in your database. You should see the message logged_ and hopefully_ receive it on your test WhatsApp number. Test invalid inputs (bad phone number_ wrong type) to see the Zod validation errors.

How Do You Handle Incoming WhatsApp Messages with Webhooks?

<!-- GAP: Missing webhook retry handling and idempotency patterns (Type: Critical) --> MessageBird uses webhooks to notify your application about incoming messages and status updates for outgoing messages.

1. Generate Webhook Function:

   bash

   yarn rw g function messagebirdWebhook
   

   This creates api/src/functions/messagebirdWebhook.js.

2. Implement Webhook Handler: Open api/src/functions/messagebirdWebhook.js:

   javascript

   // api/src/functions/messagebirdWebhook.js
   import { logger } from 'src/lib/logger'
   import { db } from 'src/lib/db'
   import crypto from 'crypto'
   
   const MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY = process.env.MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY
   
   /**
    * Verifies the signature of the incoming webhook request from MessageBird.
    * See: https://developers.messagebird.com/api/webhooks/#verifying-requests
    *
    * @param {object} headers - Request headers (lowercase).
    * @param {string} body - Raw request body.
    * @returns {boolean} - True if the signature is valid_ false otherwise.
    */
   const verifyMessageBirdSignature = (headers_ body) => {
     if (!MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY) {
       logger.error('Webhook signature verification failed: MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY not set. Rejecting request.')
       // In production, strictly return false if the key isn't set to reject unsigned requests.
       return false
     }
   
     // Headers might be lowercase depending on the API gateway
     const requestTimestamp = headers['messagebird-request-timestamp']
     const signature = headers['messagebird-signature']
   
     if (!requestTimestamp || !signature) {
       logger.warn('Missing MessageBird signature headers (messagebird-request-timestamp or messagebird-signature).')
       return false
     }
   
     // Construct the payload string: timestamp + '.' + body
     const payloadString = `${requestTimestamp}.${body}`
   
     // Calculate the expected signature
     const expectedSignature = crypto
       .createHmac('sha256', MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY)
       .update(payloadString)
       .digest('hex')
   
     // Compare signatures securely (constant time comparison)
     try {
       const receivedSigBuffer = Buffer.from(signature);
       const expectedSigBuffer = Buffer.from(expectedSignature);
       if (receivedSigBuffer.length !== expectedSigBuffer.length) {
           logger.warn('Webhook signature length mismatch.');
           return false;
       }
       return crypto.timingSafeEqual(receivedSigBuffer, expectedSigBuffer);
     } catch (error) {
       // Handle potential errors during comparison (e.g., invalid hex strings)
       logger.error({ error }, 'Error during timingSafeEqual comparison.');
       return false;
     }
   }
   
   
   /**
    * Processes incoming MessageBird webhook events (e.g., message.created, message.updated).
    *
    * @param {APIGatewayEvent} event - The AWS API Gateway event object.
    * @param {Context} context - The AWS Lambda context object.
    */
   export const handler = async (event, context) => {
     // Log raw headers for debugging signature issues if necessary (remove in prod)
     // logger.debug({ headers: event.headers }, 'Incoming webhook headers');
   
     // Normalize header keys to lowercase for reliable access
     const normalizedHeaders = Object.keys(event.headers).reduce((acc, key) => {
       acc[key.toLowerCase()] = event.headers[key];
       return acc;
     }, {});
   
     // 1. Verify Signature (CRITICAL for security)
     if (!verifyMessageBirdSignature(normalizedHeaders, event.body)) {
       logger.error('Invalid webhook signature received.')
       return { statusCode: 401, body: 'Unauthorized' }
     }
     logger.info('Webhook signature verified successfully.')
   
     // 2. Parse Payload
     let payload
     try {
       payload = JSON.parse(event.body)
       // Log minimal info to avoid exposing sensitive content in logs
       logger.info({ type: payload?.type, messageId: payload?.message?.id, conversationId: payload?.conversation?.id }, 'Parsed webhook payload')
     } catch (error) {
       logger.error({ error, bodySnippet: event.body?.substring(0, 100) }, 'Failed to parse webhook JSON body')
       return { statusCode: 400, body: 'Invalid JSON payload' }
     }
   
     // 3. Process Event (Example: message.created and message.updated)
     try {
       if (payload.type === 'message.created' && payload.message) {
         const msg = payload.message
         if (msg.direction === 'received') {
            // --- Handle Incoming Message ---
            logger.info(`Processing incoming message ${msg.id} from ${msg.from} in conversation ${msg.conversationId}`)
   
            // Check for existing message to ensure idempotency (using unique constraint on messageBirdId)
            const existingLog = await db.messageLog.findUnique({
              where: { messageBirdId: msg.id },
              select: { id: true } // Only select needed field
            });
   
            if (existingLog) {
              logger.warn(`Webhook idempotency check: Incoming message ${msg.id} already processed (Log ID: ${existingLog.id}). Skipping creation.`);
              // Optionally, you could update the existing log if needed, e.g., if status changed rapidly.
            } else {
              // Create new log entry for incoming message
              await db.messageLog.create({
                data: {
                  messageBirdId: msg.id,
                  conversationId: msg.conversationId,
                  channelId: msg.channelId,
                  status: msg.status, // Typically 'received'
                  direction: 'incoming',
                  recipient: msg.to, // Your channel ID
                  sender: msg.from, // User's phone number
                  messageType: msg.type, // 'text', 'image', etc.
                  content: msg.content, // Full content payload
                  createdAt: new Date(msg.createdDatetime), // Use MessageBird's timestamp
                  updatedAt: new Date(msg.updatedDatetime || msg.createdDatetime),
                },
              });
              logger.info(`Successfully logged incoming message ${msg.id}.`);
              // --- Add further business logic here ---
              // e.g., Trigger notifications, parse message content, update CRM, etc.
            }
         } else if (msg.direction === 'sent') {
           // This block might be redundant if message.updated handles final statuses,
           // but can be useful for logging the initial 'sent' status from MessageBird
           // if it differs from the initial 'accepted' status from the send API call.
           logger.info(`Processing 'message.created' event for an outgoing message ${msg.id}. Status: ${msg.status}`);
           // Upsert logic might be better here or in message.updated handler
           await db.messageLog.updateMany({
             where: { messageBirdId: msg.id }, // Update based on MessageBird ID
             data: {
               status: msg.status, // Update status if needed
               updatedAt: new Date(msg.updatedDatetime || msg.createdDatetime),
             },
           });
         }
       } else if (payload.type === 'message.updated' && payload.message) {
         // --- Handle Message Status Update (for Outgoing Messages) ---
         const msg = payload.message;
         logger.info(`Processing status update for message ${msg.id}. New status: ${msg.status}`);
   
         // Update the corresponding log entry based on MessageBird's message ID
         const updateData = {
           status: msg.status, // e.g., 'sent', 'delivered', 'read', 'failed'
           updatedAt: new Date(msg.updatedDatetime || Date.now()), // Use update timestamp
           errorCode: null, // Clear previous errors if any
           errorDescription: null,
         };
   
         if (msg.status === 'failed' && msg.error) {
           updateData.errorCode = msg.error.code;
           updateData.errorDescription = msg.error.description;
           logger.warn(`Message ${msg.id} failed. Code: ${msg.error.code}, Desc: ${msg.error.description}`);
         }
   
         const updateResult = await db.messageLog.updateMany({
           where: { messageBirdId: msg.id }, // Find the log entry using the unique MessageBird ID
           data: updateData,
         });
   
         if (updateResult.count > 0) {
            logger.info(`Successfully updated status for message ${msg.id} to ${msg.status}. Matched ${updateResult.count} records.`);
         } else {
            // This might happen if the webhook arrives before the initial send API call response is processed
            // or if the messageBirdId wasn't stored correctly initially.
            logger.warn(`Webhook update: No existing log entry found for messageBirdId ${msg.id}. Status was ${msg.status}. Might need reconciliation or check initial logging.`);
            // Consider creating a log entry here if it's missing, although ideally it should exist.
         }
       } else {
         logger.info(`Received unhandled webhook event type: ${payload.type}`);
       }
   
       // 4. Respond to MessageBird
       // Acknowledge receipt of the webhook quickly to prevent retries.
       return { statusCode: 200, body: 'Webhook processed successfully' }
   
     } catch (error) {
       logger.error({ error }, 'Error processing webhook payload')
       // Return 500 to signal an error to MessageBird, potentially triggering retries.
       return { statusCode: 500, body: 'Internal Server Error processing webhook' }
     }
   }
   

   Explanation:

   • Signature Verification: The verifyMessageBirdSignature function is crucial. It reconstructs the signature based on the timestamp, raw body, and your secret signing key (MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY) and compares it securely using crypto.timingSafeEqual against the signature provided in the messagebird-signature header. This prevents unauthorized requests. Headers are normalized to lowercase.
   • Payload Parsing: The incoming JSON body is parsed.
   • Event Handling: The code specifically handles message.created (for incoming messages and potentially initial outgoing status) and message.updated (for status changes like 'delivered', 'failed').
   • Incoming Messages (message.created, direction: 'received'):
     • It logs the incoming message details.
     • Idempotency: It checks if a MessageLog with the same messageBirdId already exists. If so, it skips creation to prevent duplicates from potential webhook retries.
     • If new, it creates a MessageLog record with direction: 'incoming', storing the sender's number, content, type, and MessageBird timestamps.
     • A placeholder comment indicates where further business logic (e.g., auto-replies, CRM updates) should go.
   • Status Updates (message.updated):
     • It logs the status update.
     • It updates the existing MessageLog record (found via messageBirdId) with the new status (e.g., 'sent', 'delivered', 'failed').
     • If the status is 'failed', it also logs the error code and description provided by MessageBird.
     • It handles cases where the log entry might not be found (e.g., timing issues).
   • Response: It returns a 200 OK quickly to acknowledge receipt to MessageBird. Errors during processing return a 500 Internal Server Error.

<!-- EXPAND: Could benefit from ngrok alternatives and production deployment checklist (Type: Enhancement) --> 3. Local Testing with ngrok:

• Keep your Redwood dev server running (yarn rw dev).
• Open another terminal and run ngrok:
  bash

  ngrok http 8911
  
• ngrok will provide a public HTTPS URL (e.g., https://<random-string&gt;.ngrok.io).
• Go to your MessageBird Dashboard -> Developers -> Webhooks.
• Create or edit a webhook.
  • URL: Enter the ngrok HTTPS URL followed by your function path: https://<random-string&gt;.ngrok.io/messagebirdWebhook
  • Events: Select message.created and message.updated.
  • Signing Key: Enter the same strong random string you put in your .env file for MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY.
  • Save the webhook.
• Send a message to your WhatsApp Business number from a test phone. You should see activity in the ngrok terminal and logs in your Redwood API terminal showing the incoming message being processed.
• Send a message from your application using the /sendWhatsapp endpoint. You should see message.updated events arriving at the webhook as the message status changes (e.g., accepted -> sent -> delivered). Check the MessageLog table for status updates.

<!-- GAP: Missing deployment platform-specific configuration examples (Type: Substantive) --> 4. Deployment: When deploying your RedwoodJS application (e.g., to Vercel, Netlify, AWS Serverless), ensure:

• All environment variables (MESSAGEBIRD_API_KEY, MESSAGEBIRD_WHATSAPP_CHANNEL_ID, MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY, DATABASE_URL) are correctly configured in your deployment environment.
• Update the MessageBird webhook URL to point to your deployed function's public URL (e.g., https://your-app.com/api/messagebirdWebhook).
• Ensure your database is accessible from your deployed functions.
• Implement proper authentication/authorization for the /sendWhatsapp endpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

<!-- EXPAND: Could benefit from cost estimation calculator or examples (Type: Enhancement) -->

What is the difference between MessageBird and Bird?

MessageBird rebranded as "Bird" in February 2024, slashing prices by up to 90% on SMS to compete with Twilio. The legacy MessageBird API, Node.js SDK, and documentation remain fully functional. New customers can use either platform – both support the same WhatsApp Business API endpoints. Bird's platform (app.bird.com) offers the next-generation interface with unified pricing across channels.

How do WhatsApp template messages work in 2025?

<!-- GAP: Missing template approval timeline and common rejection reasons (Type: Substantive) --> WhatsApp template messages (also called HSM – Highly Structured Messages) must be pre-approved by Meta before use. As of July 2024, templates are categorized as Marketing, Utility, or Authentication. Marketing templates require explicit opt-out instructions (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe"). Utility templates are for transactional messages (order confirmations, shipping updates). All templates must be approved via the MessageBird or Bird dashboard before you can send them. Effective April 2025, Meta will automatically recategorize improperly labeled templates.

Can you send freeform WhatsApp messages outside the 24-hour window?

No. WhatsApp enforces a strict customer service window – you can only send freeform text messages within 24 hours of the user's last message. Outside this window, you must use pre-approved template messages. This policy combats spam while enabling legitimate business communication. Your RedwoodJS integration should detect 24-hour window violations (MessageBird error code 470) and fallback to template messages automatically.

What Node.js version does RedwoodJS require in 2025?

RedwoodJS requires Node.js 20 or higher as of version 8. However, if you're deploying to AWS Lambda or similar serverless platforms, avoid Node.js 21+ due to compatibility issues. Recommended: Node.js 20 LTS (supported until April 2026). The MessageBird SDK (v4.0.1) works with all current Node.js LTS versions (18, 20, 22).

How do you secure MessageBird webhooks in production?

Implement HMAC SHA-256 signature verification using the MESSAGEBIRD_WEBHOOK_SIGNING_KEY environment variable. MessageBird includes a messagebird-signature header in each webhook request, computed from the request timestamp and body. Your RedwoodJS function must reconstruct this signature and compare it using crypto.timingSafeEqual() (constant-time comparison) to prevent timing attacks. Never accept unsigned webhook requests in production – this prevents unauthorized parties from spoofing incoming messages.

What is E.164 phone number format and why does it matter?

E.164 is the international phone number standard (ITU-T E.164): a plus sign (+) followed by country code and subscriber number (1–15 digits total, no spaces or special characters). Example: +14155552671 for a US number. MessageBird requires all phone numbers in E.164 format. Use Zod validation (z.string().regex(/^\+[1-9]\d{1,14}$/)) to enforce this format in your RedwoodJS API endpoints. Invalid formats cause message delivery failures and wasted API credits.

How do you track WhatsApp message delivery status?

MessageBird sends webhook events (message.updated) as message status changes: pending → accepted → sent → delivered → read. Your RedwoodJS webhook function updates the Prisma MessageLog table with each status change. The messageBirdId field (unique constraint) ensures idempotent updates. For failed messages, MessageBird provides error codes and descriptions via msg.error.code and msg.error.description. Store these in the errorCode and errorDescription fields for debugging.

<!-- GAP: Missing GraphQL implementation code examples (Type: Substantive) -->

Can you use RedwoodJS GraphQL API instead of serverless functions?

Yes. While this guide uses RedwoodJS serverless functions (simpler for webhook endpoints), you can expose the WhatsApp sending logic via GraphQL mutations using the @requireAuth directive for authentication. GraphQL is ideal for integrating WhatsApp messaging into your existing RedwoodJS UI. However, webhooks should remain as serverless functions since MessageBird expects standard HTTP endpoints, not GraphQL queries.

Conclusion and Next Steps

<!-- DEPTH: Section lacks specific implementation guidance for next steps (Priority: Medium) --> Congratulations! You've successfully built a production-ready WhatsApp Business API integration for RedwoodJS using MessageBird/Bird. You learned how to send WhatsApp messages (text and template formats), handle incoming messages via webhooks, log conversations with Prisma, validate phone numbers, and secure webhook endpoints with signature verification.

Next Steps & Potential Improvements:

• Template Message Management: Build a RedwoodJS GraphQL API to manage WhatsApp templates, track approval status, and select templates dynamically based on use case.
• User Interface: Create a React UI in the web/ directory for customer service agents to view conversations and send responses.
• Conversation Management: Extend the Prisma schema with a Conversation model to group messages by conversationId, track conversation state (open/closed), and assign conversations to agents.
• Rich Media Support: Implement image, document, and location message types. MessageBird supports these via the components structure in template messages or direct media URLs in freeform messages.
• Auto-Replies and Chatbots: Add business logic to the webhook handler to automatically respond to keywords (e.g., "HELP" → send support menu, "STATUS" → query order status).
• Rate Limiting and Queuing: Implement message queues (BullMQ with Redis) for high-volume sending to prevent MessageBird rate limit errors and retry failed messages with exponential backoff.
• Meta Business Verification: Complete Meta Business Verification to unlock higher messaging limits (from 1,000 to 100,000+ conversations per day).
• Monitoring and Alerts: Integrate Sentry or Datadog for error tracking, and set up alerts for webhook failures, delivery rate drops, or API errors.
• Migration to Bird Platform: Evaluate migrating to the Bird platform (app.bird.com) for access to 90% SMS discounts and unified cross-channel analytics.

Code Repository

<!-- GAP: Missing actual repository link (Type: Critical) --> [Actual repository link should be inserted here if available]

This foundation enables you to build powerful, compliant WhatsApp Business integrations in your RedwoodJS applications. Happy coding!

Sources:

• RedwoodJS Documentation: redwoodjs.com/docs
• MessageBird WhatsApp API: developers.messagebird.com/api/whatsapp
• MessageBird Node.js SDK: github.com/messagebird/messagebird-nodejs
• WhatsApp Business Platform Guidelines: developers.facebook.com/docs/whatsapp/message-templates/guidelines
• Bird Platform Migration: docs.bird.com
• Node.js LTS Schedule: nodejs.org/en/about/previous-releases