WhatsApp to Show Ads in Updates Tab: What You Need to Know

What’s the News?

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has officially announced that it will begin displaying ads in the Updates tab-the section that includes Status updates and Channels. This is a major shift for the platform, which has stayed ad-free since its launch in 2009.

Where Will Ads Appear?

Ads will appear only in the Updates tab, between Status posts and Channel content.
They will not show up in personal chats, calls, or group conversations.
The format will look like promoted Status stories, integrated with the current layout.

Privacy and Encryption Are Safe

Meta has confirmed that:

End-to-end encryption stays active for all chats and calls.
Ads will not use your personal messages or phone number.
Ad targeting will be based on:
- Your location (country or city)
- Language settings
- Followed Channels
- Past ad interactions
- Meta ad preferences (if you’ve linked your account)

No content from private conversations will ever be accessed or sold.

New Monetization Features

WhatsApp is also launching:

Paid Channel Subscriptions – Creators and brands can charge users for exclusive content.
Promoted Channels – Businesses can pay to boost visibility in the Channels directory.

These changes mark Meta’s goal of making WhatsApp more business-friendly and profitable.

See Also –

WhatsApp Username Feature in 2025: Chat Privately Without Sharing Your Number

Instagram App for iPad: Official Launch Expected in 2025

Google Shutting Down Instant Apps – November 2025 Last Call!

Why Meta Is Doing This

WhatsApp has over 2 billion users, and about 1.5 billion people view the Updates tab daily. With such a large audience, the platform has untapped ad revenue potential.

Meta’s stock even rose about 2.5% after the announcement – indicating investor confidence in monetizing the platform.

How Will Users React?

Reactions are mixed:

“WhatsApp used to be simple. Now it’s turning into another Instagram.”
“As long as ads stay out of my chats, I’m fine with it.”

For now, ads will only affect the Updates tab. Users who don’t visit that section won’t see ads at all.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp is finally entering the world of ads-but carefully.

Chats stay private.
You won’t see ads in conversations.
Ads will only appear in the Updates tab.

As Meta continues building a WeChat-style “super app,” expect more business tools, monetization options, and integrations coming soon.