> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://playbook.nativemsg.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://playbook.nativemsg.com/get-started/quickstart/sending-your-first-blast.md).

# Sending Your First Blast

**Goal:** Send your first one-to-many message (Blast) using nativeMsg.\
Blasts let you reach multiple subscribers at once — for announcements, promotions, or important updates.\
**Estimated Time:** 10–15 minutes

***

### 💡 What Is a Blast?

A **Blast** is a broadcast message you send to a group of users who are subscribed to a channel in nativeMsg.\
It’s similar to sending an email campaign — but across SMS, RCS, Web Chat, or Facebook Messenger.

You can send immediately or schedule delivery for later.

Each Blast can include:

* Text, images, audio, or video
* Action buttons (URL, Postback, Phone, Location, Calendar)
* Quick Replies (to collect info or guide next steps)
* Fallback messaging for non-RCS devices

***

### 🧭 Overview of the Blast Workflow

1. Create a new Blast
2. Choose Bot, Channel(s), and Tags (audience)
3. Create the message (text, media, buttons, quick replies)
4. (Optional) Add a Carousel
5. (Optional) Add Fallback Message (for RCS users without rich media support)
6. Send immediately or schedule for later

***

### 🧱 Step 1: Create a New Blast

1. Go to **Blasts → Create New Blast**.
2. Enter a **Title** — for your internal reference.
3. In **Choose Bot**, select the bot you want to use.

   > This determines which channels are available.
4. In **Choose Channels**, select one or more destinations (SMS/RCS, Web Chat, Facebook, etc.).
5. In **Choose Tags**, select the audience segment(s) you want to reach.

✅ *Pro Tip:* Tags let you target exactly who should receive the message — such as “Leads,” “VIPs,” or “New Signups.”

***

### 💬 Step 2: Create the Message

The message is what your users see.\
You can add **text**, **media**, **buttons**, and **quick replies** to make it interactive.

1. In the **Media** panel, click **Media file**.
   * Upload an image, audio, or video file from your system, *or* paste a link.
2. In **Blast Message**, write the message text you want to send.

#### 🖼️ Optional: Add a Carousel

For a more visual layout:

* Click the **Carousel** tab in the message builder.
* Add a **Title** and **Subtitle**.
* Upload **media** (images or videos).
* Add **Buttons** or **Default Actions** (URLs or quick replies).
* Click **+ Add** to include more cards.

> 💡 *Each card acts like a mini-message — perfect for showcasing products or multiple options.*

***

### 🔘 Step 3: Add Buttons

Buttons let users take instant action. You can add one or more of these to each message or carousel card:

| Button Type       | Description                          |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------ |
| **URL**           | Opens a webpage or link              |
| **Postback**      | Triggers a bot interaction or event  |
| **Phone**         | Starts a phone call                  |
| **View Location** | Shows a map or coordinates           |
| **Calendar**      | Opens an event invite with date/time |

> 🧩 *Always name your button before closing the panel to save it.*

***

### 💬 Step 4: Add Quick Replies

Quick Replies give users fast, one-tap responses.\
You can add up to **20 quick replies** per Blast.

1. Below the message panel, click **Quick Reply**.
2. Add a **Reply Title** (the button text).
3. Choose a Quick Reply Type:
   * **Postback** — triggers a bot action or saves data
   * **Location** — requests user location
   * **View Location** — displays an address or map
   * **Calendar** — adds an event to the user’s calendar

✅ *When tapped, the user’s response is automatically posted to their conversation thread.*

***

### 📱 Step 5: Add a Fallback Message (for RCS)

If you’re sending via RCS (Rich Communication Services), some users may not have RCS-enabled devices.\
Use **Fallback Messaging** to ensure everyone still receives the content.

1. Click **Attach File** to upload an image, audio, or video.
   * This will send via MMS.
2. In **Fallback Message**, type your backup text.
   * This sends via SMS.

> 💬 *Fallback is optional but highly recommended — it guarantees full reach.*

***

### ⏱️ Step 6: Send or Schedule

* Click **Send Blast** to send immediately, or
* Click **Schedule** to deliver later.

#### Status Indicators

| Status        | Meaning                        |
| ------------- | ------------------------------ |
| **Draft**     | Blast created but not sent yet |
| **Scheduled** | Blast set for future date/time |
| **Sent**      | Blast successfully delivered   |

You can view all upcoming or completed blasts in **Dashboard → Scheduled Messages.**

***

### 📊 Step 7: Monitor Performance

After your blast is live, review engagement in the Dashboard:

* Total Messages Sent / Received
* Channel Activity
* Top Bots and Popular Campaigns

> 📈 *Click into any metric to see where changes are happening.*

***

### ⚙️ Smart Tips for Better Blasts

| Tip                        | Why It Matters                                                       |
| -------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Segment with Tags**      | Improves relevance and reduces opt-outs.                             |
| **Limit Copy Length**      | SMS truncates long text; keep it under 160 characters when possible. |
| **Use Branded Links**      | Builds trust and reduces carrier filtering.                          |
| **Preview Before Sending** | Check formatting across channels.                                    |
| **Include STOP/HELP**      | Required by carriers for recurring programs.                         |
| **Schedule for Best Time** | Match your audience’s local business hours.                          |

***

### 🧩 Mini Compliance Checklist (Before Send)

* [ ] Brand name is clear and matches registered campaign.
* [ ] STOP / HELP and frequency disclosures are covered in the program.
* [ ] Links use your verified domain (no shorteners).
* [ ] Privacy & Terms links are live.
* [ ] Message tested successfully on all channels.

***

### ✅ You Did It!

You just sent your first blast!\
You can now:

* Duplicate successful blasts for future campaigns
* Schedule recurring messages
* Track engagement in your Dashboard

> 💬 *Pro Tip:* Use results to refine audience Tags and bot interactions for even better performance.


---

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