# Understanding Display Picture for Your WhatsApp API Number Your **display picture** (also called a **profile image**) is the small image that appears next to your business name when customers see or open a WhatsApp message sent from your API number.
For businesses using **DoubleTick**, this image plays a key role in how customers **recognize, trust, and remember** your brand on WhatsApp. *** ### What Exactly Is a Display Picture? A display picture is the **visual identity** of your WhatsApp Business API number. It is shown: * In the customer’s chat list * At the top of the WhatsApp chat screen * Inside your WhatsApp business profile In simple terms, it’s the **face of your business on WhatsApp**. *** ### Why Is the Display Picture Important? When customers receive a WhatsApp message, they usually notice **three things first**: 1. Business name 2. Display picture 3. Message preview A clear and professional display picture helps: * Customers instantly recognize your business * Build trust before they even read the message * Reduce confusion with unknown or spammy numbers * Strengthen your brand presence on WhatsApp Even if your message content is perfect, a poor or missing display picture can reduce credibility. *** ### Who Can See Your Display Picture? Your display picture is visible to: * Any customer who receives a message from your WhatsApp API number * Anyone who opens your WhatsApp business profile Visibility may depend on the customer’s personal WhatsApp privacy settings, but **most users will see it**. *** ### What Should You Use as a Display Picture? Best choices: * Your official company logo * A clean brand symbol * A high-quality, centered image Avoid: * Personal photos * Blurry or low-resolution images * Images with too much text * Posters, banners, or flyers WhatsApp crops the image into a **circle**, so always keep important elements centered. *** ### Is the Display Picture Mandatory? No, a display picture is **not mandatory** to use WhatsApp API. However: * Accounts **with a display picture look more professional** * Customers are **more likely to trust and respond** * Your brand looks consistent across WhatsApp, website, and social media *** ### Does Changing the Display Picture Affect Messaging? No.\ Changing your display picture: * Does **not** interrupt messaging * Does **not** require template re-approval * Does **not** affect your WhatsApp API status It’s a safe and recommended update. *** ### Where Is the Display Picture Managed? Your WhatsApp API display picture is managed through: * **DoubleTick Dashboard** (quick updates) * **Facebook Business Manager / WhatsApp Manager** (source-level control) Both methods update the **same display picture** on WhatsApp. *** ### Key Takeaway Your display picture is often the **first visual impression** customers get of your business on WhatsApp. A clear, well-sized, and professional image: * Builds trust instantly * Improves brand recall * Makes your WhatsApp communication feel official Before sending campaigns or automation messages, always make sure your display picture represents your brand properly.