With WhatsApp’s user base now topping 2 billion people worldwide, Meta is once again turning its attention to monetizing the platform — and this time, it’s revisiting ads, but with a softer approach.
Instead of interrupting private chats (a move that never goes down well), Meta is going back to a less invasive strategy: placing ads in WhatsApp Status, which is the app’s version of Stories.
Here’s What’s Happening
Meta has started testing ads within WhatsApp Status updates. These ads will appear between your friends’ posts, just like on Instagram or Facebook Stories.
According to WhatsApp:
“You’ll be able to find a new business and easily start a conversation with them about a product or service they’re promoting in Status.”
So, while you’re scrolling through updates from friends or family, you might come across an ad. It’s a familiar setup for users of Meta’s other platforms and likely to feel less disruptive than ads placed inside chats.
Wait, Haven’t We Seen This Before?
Yes — kind of. Meta originally floated the idea of Status ads back in 2018, but backed off after users raised concerns about privacy. Since then, WhatsApp’s core focus on protecting private communication has made monetization tricky — especially for a company like Meta that typically relies on personalized ad targeting.
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A Privacy-Friendly Approach (Sort Of)
Meta says it will continue to prioritize privacy with this rollout. The ads you see in Status or Channels will be based on limited data — like your city, language, and the channels you follow. If you’ve connected your WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center, Meta may also use your ad preferences and data from Instagram or Facebook to personalize the ads.
New Monetization Options for Businesses Too
In addition to Status ads, WhatsApp is also launching:
- Promoted Channels – allowing brands and creators to boost their visibility in the “Channels” tab.
- Channel Subscriptions – a new way for creators and brands to earn directly on WhatsApp.
These updates are part of Meta’s larger push to make WhatsApp a more business-friendly platform, especially in regions where WhatsApp is already a key tool for communication and commerce.
So, What’s the Catch?
It all comes down to how users respond. While these changes are less aggressive than ads in chats, the introduction of any paid content on WhatsApp will be closely watched. Meta is walking a fine line between monetizing its investment and keeping users happy in an app known for privacy and simplicity.
Whether these new ad formats strike the right balance remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear — WhatsApp is finally entering its ad era, just more quietly this time.
