WhatsApp plans three new advertising features across its global messaging platform. Meta promises ads will not appear inside private chats or use encrypted message content for targeting. The company targets users through location data, language settings, and channel interactions instead. People who connect their WhatsApp accounts to Facebook or Instagram see more personalized advertisements. The new ad formats appear inside the Updates section at the bottom of the app.
Business channels can promote content through the Updates tab to attract followers and charge subscription fees for premium access. WhatsApp takes 10 percent commission from these payments along with potential app store charges for larger companies. Companies advertise through status updates that resemble Instagram stories and direct users to start conversations. Social media expert Matt Navarra warns Meta faces risks monetizing WhatsApp's edges without damaging user trust. European markets particularly resist content feeds and advertising features since they view WhatsApp as a simple messaging tool.
WhatsApp chief Will Cathcart calls the changes a natural extension of messaging services similar to Snapchat and Telegram features. He stresses the Updates section remains optional and unpopular among UK users compared to other global markets. The company recently angered users with a permanent AI button that cannot be removed or disabled. Cathcart defends permanent features by noting other unchangeable buttons like channels, calls, and updates already exist throughout the app interface.
Business channels can promote content through the Updates tab to attract followers and charge subscription fees for premium access. WhatsApp takes 10 percent commission from these payments along with potential app store charges for larger companies. Companies advertise through status updates that resemble Instagram stories and direct users to start conversations. Social media expert Matt Navarra warns Meta faces risks monetizing WhatsApp's edges without damaging user trust. European markets particularly resist content feeds and advertising features since they view WhatsApp as a simple messaging tool.
WhatsApp chief Will Cathcart calls the changes a natural extension of messaging services similar to Snapchat and Telegram features. He stresses the Updates section remains optional and unpopular among UK users compared to other global markets. The company recently angered users with a permanent AI button that cannot be removed or disabled. Cathcart defends permanent features by noting other unchangeable buttons like channels, calls, and updates already exist throughout the app interface.
