WhatsApp, the world’s most popular messaging app, is getting a big update in 2025 — ads are coming. But don’t worry, it’s not what you think. If you’re a digital marketer, this update opens new doors for business promotion. Let’s understand the update and how it helps your marketing strategy.
What’s New in WhatsApp?
Meta (the parent company of WhatsApp) has announced that ads will start appearing in the “Updates” tab of WhatsApp. This is the same tab where users view Status and follow Channels.
Important: Ads will not appear in private chats or groups. Your messages are still end-to-end encrypted.
Where Will Ads Show?
The ads will appear in:
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The Updates tab (like Instagram Stories or Facebook Feed)
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In public Channels, similar to Telegram Channels
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Click-to-WhatsApp ads from Instagram and Facebook that send users to chat with businesses
Is My Privacy Safe?
Yes. Meta says they will not use your chat content for ad targeting. Instead, ads are shown based on:
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Your location (city level)
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Language
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Channels you follow
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Ads you’ve clicked before
This means users still enjoy privacy, and businesses can target audiences in a smart way.
How Businesses Can Use This
As a digital marketer or business owner, here’s how you can benefit:
1. Promote Your WhatsApp Channel
Just like promoting your Instagram page, now you can run ads to grow your WhatsApp channel followers.
2. Use Click-to-WhatsApp Ads
You can run Facebook or Instagram ads that lead users to WhatsApp for direct conversation. This is great for:
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Getting leads
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Sending price lists
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Answering customer questions
3. Paid Subscriptions (Coming Soon)
Soon, businesses and influencers can charge users for premium content on WhatsApp Channels. Think exclusive deals, early access, or VIP updates.
Why Meta Is Doing This
Meta wants to turn WhatsApp into a super app — not just for chatting, but for shopping, customer service, and now advertising. With over 3 billion users, it’s a smart move to help small and big businesses reach people directly.
What This Means for Digital Marketers
As a digital marketer in calicut, this update brings new opportunities:
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More direct lead generation
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Better user engagement
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Cost-effective ads with high conversion through chats
If you run WhatsApp-based services or manage leads via chat, this is your time to shine.
Final Thoughts
The WhatsApp Ads update is not about spammy ads in chats. It’s a smart way for businesses to:
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Reach users in a private setting
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Offer customer service
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Drive conversations that convert
Start building your WhatsApp presence today — create a Business Profile, build a Channel, and set up click-to-chat ads. The earlier you start, the better you stand out.