# Text Messages

> Send WhatsApp text messages: plain text up to 4,096 characters with optional URL previews. The simplest way to start conversations.

Text messages are the simplest WhatsApp message type. They support basic formatting and links.

## Send a Text Message

```typescript
const result = await zavu.messages.send({
  to: "+14155551234",
  text: "Hello from Zavu!",
  channel: "whatsapp",
});
```

```bash
curl -X POST https://api.zavu.dev/v1/messages \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer $ZAVUDEV_API_KEY" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{
    "to": "+14155551234",
    "text": "Hello from Zavu!",
    "channel": "whatsapp"
  }'
```

## Text Formatting

WhatsApp supports basic formatting in text messages:

| Format | Syntax | Example |
|--------|--------|---------|
| Bold | `*text*` | *Hello* |
| Italic | `_text_` | _Hello_ |
| Strikethrough | `~text~` | ~Hello~ |
| Monospace | ``` `text` ``` | `Hello` |

### Example with Formatting

```json
{
  "to": "+14155551234",
  "text": "Your order *#12345* is _confirmed_.\n\nTotal: `$99.99`",
  "channel": "whatsapp"
}
```

## Specifications

| Property | Requirement |
|----------|-------------|
| Max length | 4096 characters |
| Links | Auto-detected and clickable |
| Emoji | Fully supported |
| Line breaks | Use `\n` |

## Use Cases

- Order confirmations
- Appointment reminders
- Account notifications
- Two-factor authentication codes
- General customer communication