WhatsApp News: Status Ads and Promoted Channels Introduced
The introduction of Status Ads and Promoted Channels marks a significant development in WhatsApp's efforts to provide businesses with new ways to reach their target audience, while maintaining user privacy and control over ad experience.
WhatsApp has rolled out a new Android update, version 2.25.21.11, through the Google Play Beta Program, introducing Status Ads and Promoted Channels to select beta testers. This update brings sponsored content directly into the Updates tab, allowing users to view ads in their Status feeds and discover public channels.
The Status Ads feature will display sponsored content in users' Status feeds, clearly marked as "sponsored" to distinguish them from personal posts. Users will have control over their ad experience, with the option to block advertisers. This move aims to provide businesses with a new way to reach their target audience on the platform.
In addition to Status Ads, WhatsApp is also introducing Promoted Channels, which will help public channels gain visibility in the app's directory. These promoted channels will be labeled as "sponsored," ensuring transparency for users. The introduction of these features is expected to enhance the overall user experience and provide new opportunities for businesses to connect with their audience.
WhatsApp has assured users that their privacy remains unaffected by the introduction of these features, with ads confined to public-facing areas like Status and Channels. As the update is currently available to select Android beta testers, it is expected to roll out to a wider audience in the coming weeks.