WhatsApp is rolling out ads

WhatsApp is stepping into the ad space. In a fresh update, Meta has confirmed that it's introducing sponsored content within WhatsApp’s Status section — the Stories-style feature tucked under the “Updates” tab. Until now, this space was reserved for disappearing texts, photos, videos, and voice notes from friends and family. But now, you'll also start seeing business ads in the mix.

Meta plans to make the ads relevant to your interests by using a “limited” set of data — things like your location (city or country), language, channels you follow, and how you engage with ads across Meta platforms. If that sounds a bit too curated for your taste, you can always tweak your ad settings through Meta’s Accounts Centre, as long as you’ve opted in.

Meta says it’s sticking to its promise of keeping your private chats untouched — and it’s placing ads where they (hopefully) feel less intrusive. “We’ve always aimed to build a business model that doesn’t interfere with your messages,” the company explains, adding that the Updates tab is the ideal spot for these new features to live.

Importantly, Meta reassures users that phone numbers won’t be sold or shared with advertisers, and your messages, calls, and group activity will remain completely off-limits when it comes to ad targeting.

But that’s not all that’s changing. Meta is also tweaking how you discover content on WhatsApp. Soon, when you tap the Explore button to browse for new channels, you might spot promoted channels featured at the top. Plus, the platform is rolling out channel subscriptions, letting you opt in to exclusive updates from creators and businesses you follow.