Today, @WhatsApp is introducing new features in the Updates tab (like channel subscriptions, promoted channels and ads in Status) without changing anything about your personal chats (they remain end to end encrypted). https://t.co/agscs7n1o6 — Meta Newsroom (@MetaNewsroom) June 16, 2025

Meta introduces ads to WhatsApp, including status ads and Channels subscriptions, with a focus on business messaging.

Meta has begun rolling out ads on WhatsApp for the first time, starting with its Updates tab. The move also includes channel subscriptions and promoted content, all outside private chats.

WhatsApp introduces ads and channel subscriptions in the Updates tab, but reassures users that private chats remain fully encrypted.

OpenAI made the announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter. The company wrote, “ChatGPT image generation is now available in WhatsApp via 1-800-ChatGPT. Now available to everyone.” Another post stated, “Don't forget to link your ChatGPT account to 1-800-ChatGPT in WhatsApp to get more image generations.”

WhatsApp rolls out ads in Updates section as Meta monetizes the messaging app. Discover how this changes your private messaging experience forever.

As per Meta's Newsroom, advertisements will appear only in the "Updates" tab — a separate tab at the bottom of the app, which showcases both "Channels" and "Status" features. Users can subscribe to friends and other public channels, and post statuses of their own, akin to Instagram 's subscription and "Stories" features.

Will Cathcart, head of Meta's subsidiary, announced the launch of WhatsApp channels with subscriptions and advertising. He says the rollout of artificial intelligence does not compromise the privacy of encrypted messaging.