WhatsApp to introduce ads in status feature

(Web Desk): WhatsApp appears to be preparing to add advertisements to its “Status” feature, potentially causing concern for users.

According to reports, WhatsApp is exploring new monetization opportunities on its popular messaging platform. Its latest Android beta update introduces two long-anticipated features: Status Ads and Promoted Channels. These additions aim to help businesses and content creators expand their reach.

According to WABetaInfo, these features are currently available to a limited group of Android beta testers using WhatsApp beta version 2.25.21.11.

What are Status Ads?

This feature is similar to Instagram Story ads. Through Status Ads, business accounts can display sponsored content within users' Status feed. These ads will appear between updates from friends and family but will be clearly marked as "Sponsored" so users can differentiate between personal posts and promotional content.

Additionally, users will have the option to block advertisers, preventing their ads from appearing again in the future.

What are Promoted Channels?

The second new feature, Promoted Channels, is designed to make public channels more visible within WhatsApp’s directory. These channels will also carry a “Sponsored” label to distinguish them from organic suggestions.

When a business or creator pays to promote their channel, it will rank higher in visibility, making it easier for potential followers to discover and engage with it.

This feature will be especially valuable for brands, creators, and organizations looking to grow their communities faster than through organic methods.

Despite growing concerns over advertising on private messaging platforms, WhatsApp has emphasized that user privacy will not be compromised. The ads will not appear in private chats, and Meta has clarified that these promotional features will be limited to public areas of the app such as Status and Channels.