Hajra Naz
Meta has confirmed that ads are coming to WhatsApp soon. This is a big change for the app, which has always been ad-free and focused on privacy.
At first, ads will only appear in the “Updates” tab. This includes status updates and channels. Over 1.5 billion people use this section every day. Ads will first show in the Status area, where people share photos and videos that disappear in 24 hours. Businesses can use these ads to promote products and connect with customers on WhatsApp.
Promoted Channels and Paid Subscriptions
Meta is also launching a new feature called “Promoted Channels.” This will surface suggested channels in the Updates tab based on user activity and preferences. It’s designed to help creators and businesses gain visibility.
WhatsApp is adding paid channel subscriptions. This means users can pay each month to see special content from certain channels—like exclusive updates or behind-the-scenes posts. It’s made to help creators, influencers, and groups earn money on WhatsApp.
Private Chats Stay the Same
Meta says ads will not show up in private chats, group chats, or calls. These will still be fully private and end-to-end encrypted. The goal is to bring in money without changing how people message each other.
How Ad Targeting Will Work
Ads shown in WhatsApp’s Updates tab will be personalized using limited data. This includes non-personal information like
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Country and city
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Language preferences
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Followed Channels
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Interaction with promotional content
If users connect WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center (which includes Facebook and Instagram), Meta might use data from those apps to show better ads.
But Meta says it won’t share phone numbers or private chats with advertisers. These will stay private and won’t affect which ads you see.
When It’s Coming
The ads will start showing up in the next few months, but only in some places at first. Meta hasn’t said exactly when or where.
This is the first time WhatsApp will show ads. It’s part of Meta’s plan to make money from WhatsApp without affecting private chats.
