Connect Channels (Telegram, Instagram/Messenger, WhatsApp)
Connecting your business channels to CalendarApp lets you receive bookings directly via Telegram, Instagram/Messenger, or WhatsApp. CalendarApp will reply automatically, confirm appointments, and help manage your bookings—no manual effort needed.
Last updated: October 17, 2025
Table of Contents
Prerequisites
- Active Telegram account
- Instagram Professional account (linked to a Facebook Page)
- WhatsApp Business phone number (ready to verify)
- Be logged into the relevant Telegram, Facebook/Meta, and WhatsApp accounts
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) is recommended for all platforms
Telegram
Connecting Telegram allows customers to book appointments through your Telegram bot. CalendarApp will automate booking replies and confirmations.
How to Connect Telegram
- Open the Telegram app and search for BotFather.
- Start a chat and send
/newbot. - Set your bot’s name and unique username when prompted.
- Copy the API token provided by BotFather.
- Go to Settings → Channels → Telegram in CalendarApp.
- Click Connect.
- Paste your Telegram API token and click Save.
- Send a test message to your new bot to confirm the connection.
Instagram/Messenger
Connect Instagram and Messenger to let customers book appointments via DM. CalendarApp handles replies and confirmations directly within Instagram or Facebook Messenger.
How to Connect Instagram/Messenger
- In CalendarApp, go to Settings → Channels → Instagram/Messenger.
- Click Connect.
- A Facebook/Meta dialog opens. Continue as prompted.
- Select your Instagram Professional account and/or Facebook Page.
- Grant all requested permissions for messaging and business access.
- Send yourself a quick DM to test the connection.
Connect WhatsApp to let customers book by sending a WhatsApp message. CalendarApp will reply and confirm bookings automatically.
How to Connect WhatsApp
- In CalendarApp, go to Settings → Channels → WhatsApp.
- Click Connect.
- A Meta/WhatsApp window opens. Sign in with your Facebook/Meta account.
- Accept the WhatsApp Business/Cloud API terms.
- Select or create a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).
- Pick or verify your WhatsApp Business phone number.
- Set your business display name.
- Finish the on-screen steps. You’ll return to CalendarApp when done.
- Send yourself a test message on WhatsApp to confirm the setup.
Security & Permissions
- If your Telegram bot token is ever leaked, use BotFather to generate a new token and update it in CalendarApp.
- Review Meta (Facebook/Instagram) permissions at least once a year to ensure only required access is granted.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all your accounts to keep your channels secure.
Troubleshooting
- Instagram/Messenger: If bookings don’t come through, check that all messaging permissions were granted in the Meta dialog.
- Telegram: If your bot isn’t responding, double-check the username and API token.
- WhatsApp: If your phone number is already linked elsewhere, you’ll need to remove it or use a different verified business number.
- Time zone mismatch: If booking times seem off, confirm your CalendarApp and device time zones match.
FAQ
- Can I connect more than one channel?
Yes, you can connect Telegram, Instagram/Messenger, and WhatsApp all at once. CalendarApp will automate booking replies for each channel. - Can I change my Telegram bot token or WhatsApp number later?
Absolutely—just update your token or number in the respective CalendarApp channel settings. - Do I need a Facebook Page to connect Instagram?
Yes, your Instagram Professional account must be linked to a Facebook Page for Meta’s messaging integration to work. - Can I use a dedicated WhatsApp business number?
Yes, using a separate WhatsApp Business number is recommended for managing customer bookings.
Next Step
Your business channels are now ready to receive and automate booking requests! Next, connect your calendar to sync appointments: Connect your calendar with Google Calendar or Outlook.
If you have any questions, reach out via email at info@calendar-app.de.