Ads in Status and Channels Get discovered on WhatsApp

WhatsApp will soon start showing ads!

While I have mixed feelings about this change, it’s a significant move that could reshape how brands connect with audiences in more personal spaces.

The ads will appear in the Updates tab, not in private chats, and WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption will remain unchanged.

For marketers, this presents a new and unique channel to explore, one that demands thoughtful, user-first communication. It’ll be interesting to see how users and businesses respond.

What are your thoughts on this update?