Developers can use Instagram Messaging API in other apps

Developers can start using the Instagram Messaging API in other apps. This allows them to build tools to merge communications from chat services. That’s for businesses that want to manage communications with customers from a single app.

Not all accounts have access to the API yet, Facebook says. Now an account needs more than 10,000 followers to use the api. From July, accounts with more than 1,000 followers will be able to do so, after which all accounts will be able to use it from about September, the company says.

Facebook has been testing the Instagram Messaging API since last fall and now considers it ready for release. The API allows Messaging business customers to manage chats with customers from other apps. The api allows integration into those other apps.

The social networking company announced the move at F8 Refresh, its own digital developer conference taking place this week. Facebook also announced changes for WhatsApp Business.

Instagram Messaging API