WhatsApp Is Getting Ads – Here's Where You'll See Them

WhatsApp is looking into offering more ways for channels and users to benefit from products through the messaging app, and that means offering ads in certain spots.

The last few updates have revealed a shift in how WhatsApp wants to operate its messaging platform. The app added channels a while back, making it easier for creators and businesses to keep their audience informed and up-to-date.

According to WhatsApp, that section of the app is getting a small rework. The company notes that channels now have the option to offer subscriptions. This would allow them to offer exclusive updates for a monthly fee, like any other paid subscription.

WhatsApp is also going to start showing promoted channels. Channel admins will get the option to pay to have their channels float to the surface in the app’s directory. This is less of an important change for users and more of a change for admins looking to expand their business. These admins will also be able to push ads in WhatsApp’s status section.

For the user, the status feed in WhatsApp will now house ads from different channels and businesses. According to WhatsApp, the changes made will not affect any part of the user experience in the chat section. All of the changes made will appear in the updates tab and shouldn’t affect those who use the app solely for chatting with friends and family.

The update should be rolling out now to users on Android and iOS.