WhatsApp has officially announced a significant update to its messaging app, introducing advertisements that will appear on users’ screens worldwide. These ads will be visible in a section called Updates, located at the bottom tab of the app.
Under the ownership of Meta, WhatsApp disclosed that businesses will have the opportunity to advertise in this designated area and may charge users for subscribing to additional services. The company clarified that these new features will only be displayed in the Updates tab, separate from users’ personal conversations, ensuring no disruption to regular chat experiences.
Users will also have the option to support specific channels by subscribing to receive exclusive updates for a monthly fee, with WhatsApp taking a 10% commission, according to reports from the BBC.
While ads are not new to Meta-owned platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the integration of ads on WhatsApp has triggered a mixed response from users. Despite assurances that the update will not impact the core messaging functionality, some users expressed anger and even threatened to uninstall the app.
WhatsApp emphasized its commitment to privacy, highlighting that all messages remain end-to-end encrypted and inaccessible to the platform itself. However, it was confirmed that certain user data will be utilized to tailor advertisements based on individual interests.
Although the implementation timeline for these changes remains unspecified, skepticism persists among many users, with concerns about potential intrusive advertising experiences. Despite WhatsApp’s attempts to allay fears, some users remain skeptical about the future implications of the ad integration.