What is MCP?
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a standardized protocol that allows AI agents and tools to interact with services through a uniform interface. GOWA WhatsApp API implements MCP Server support, enabling AI assistants like Claude, Cursor, and other MCP-enabled tools to interact with WhatsApp programmatically.Why Use MCP?
MCP provides several advantages over traditional REST API integration:Standardized Protocol
- Uniform Interface: AI tools can discover and use WhatsApp tools without custom integration code
- Type Safety: Tool parameters are strongly typed with built-in validation
- Self-Documenting: Tools include descriptions and parameter hints
AI-Native Design
- Optimized for Agents: Purpose-built for AI assistants to understand and use effectively
- Structured Responses: Returns data in formats optimized for AI consumption
- Contextual Metadata: Includes hints for read-only, destructive, and idempotent operations
Real-Time Communication
- Server-Sent Events (SSE): Persistent connection for real-time updates
- Bidirectional: AI agents can call tools and receive streaming responses
- Low Latency: Direct communication without polling
MCP vs REST Mode
| Feature | MCP Mode | REST Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | AI agents and assistants | Human developers, web apps |
| Transport | SSE (Server-Sent Events) | HTTP/HTTPS |
| Discovery | Automatic via MCP protocol | Manual via OpenAPI spec |
| Authentication | Connection-based | Basic Auth, API keys |
| Interface | Tool-based (function calls) | Endpoint-based (HTTP routes) |
| Response Format | Structured + fallback text | JSON |
| Web UI | Not available | Full web interface |
| Use Case | Automation via AI | Direct API integration |
Important Limitation: You can only run GOWA in one mode at a time — either MCP or REST. This is a limitation of the underlying
whatsmeow library. To switch modes, stop the server and restart with the desired mode.MCP Server Capabilities
The GOWA MCP server provides:- Tool Capabilities: 40+ WhatsApp tools across connection, messaging, contacts, and groups
- Resource Capabilities: Access to chats, messages, and contacts as resources
- Type Safety: All parameters validated with clear error messages
- Operation Hints: Tools marked as read-only, destructive, or idempotent
Available Tool Categories
The MCP server organizes tools into four main categories:Connection Management
Tools for managing WhatsApp connection state, login, and logout.Messaging & Communication
Send text messages, images, stickers, contacts, locations, and links.Contacts & Chats
Query contacts, list chats, retrieve messages, and download media.Group Management
Create groups, manage participants, configure settings, and handle join requests.Next Steps
Setup
Learn how to run the MCP server and connect from AI tools
Configuration
Configure MCP in Cursor, Claude Desktop, and other clients
Connection Tools
Explore connection management tools
Messaging Tools
Learn about messaging and communication tools