Meta has announced that WhatsApp will begin showing advertisements—but only within the redesigned Updates tab (formerly Status and Channels)—marking the app’s first major push into monetization since being acquired in 2014.
Here’s what’s included:
- Ads in Status
Businesses will now be able to display ads within Status updates. When users tap these ads, they can start a conversation with the advertiser directly through WhatsApp. - Promoted Channels
Admins of WhatsApp Channels will have the option to pay for greater visibility in the channel directory, helping them reach new audiences. - Channel Subscriptions
Creators and organizations can open exclusive channels requiring a monthly subscription. Meta will initially take no cut, though a 10 % fee may be applied later.
User-Friendly Design & Privacy Safeguards
- Ad-free private chats: No ads will appear in personal or group conversations, and end-to-end encryption remains fully intact.
- Limited targeting data: Advertisements will be tailored using non-sensitive information only (e.g., country, language, followed channels, ad interactions), and phone numbers won’t be shared with advertisers.
- Optional integration with Meta Accounts Center: More personalized ads may be shown if a user links their WhatsApp account with Facebook/Instagram. Users can always control ad preferences.
Why This Matters
- Major monetization milestone: With over 3 billion monthly active users and 200 million business accounts, WhatsApp has long been trailing other Meta platforms in ad revenue. This marks a pivotal step toward unlocking its financial potential.
- Enhancing business tools: The new formats empower small businesses and creators to boost visibility, drive traffic, and offer exclusive content—all within WhatsApp.
- Following the super‑app model: The move aligns with Meta’s vision of evolving WhatsApp into a multifunctional platform—much like WeChat—combining messaging, commerce, subscriptions, and now ads.
What’s Next
The rollout will begin gradually “over the next several months,” with initial availability in major markets before expanding globally. If you largely stick to text and voice chats, your experience will remain unchanged—only those who regularly explore the Updates tab will encounter these new options.
This strategic update transforms WhatsApp from a pure chat app into a rich platform for businesses, creators, and users alike—with monetization carefully contained in one separate space to respect the integrity and privacy of personal conversations.
