ManyChat turned comment-to-DM automation into a category of its own — brands and creators use it to auto-reply to comments, qualify leads, and run entire funnels inside Instagram and WhatsApp. The visual flow builder is approachable for non-technical users, but real usage cost adds up fast once you factor in WhatsApp messaging fees (billed separately by Meta) and contact overages beyond your plan's limit. Best suited for creators and DTC brands leaning on social-native funnels rather than email.