WhatsApp for Android is introducing two new monetization features in its latest beta release: Status Ads and Promoted Channels. These tools were first officially announced by Meta on June 17, and now, they are being gradually made available to select beta testers through the app’s public testing program.
WhatsApp Beta Version 2.25.21.11 Brings New Advertising Tools
As reported by WABetainfo, the new beta version 2.25.21.11 of WhatsApp for Android includes the addition of Status Ads and Promoted Channels. These features are now being tested publicly, aimed primarily at business account users and creators looking to expand their reach through the Status section.
Status Ads: New Way for Businesses to Reach Users
The Status Ads feature allows businesses to place sponsored content between users’ regular Status updates. While these ads will appear similarly to normal Status posts, they will be clearly marked as sponsored content. Users will also have the option to block advertisers, ensuring greater control over what appears in their feed.
This feature offers a direct way for businesses and creators to promote their services and content to a wider audience, without disrupting the core user experience.
Promoted Channels to Boost Channel Visibility
Alongside Status Ads, Promoted Channels is another significant addition. Functioning in a similar manner, this feature will help public channels gain more visibility within WhatsApp’s channel directory. When a business promotes a channel, it will be highlighted with a sponsored label, giving it greater exposure than it would normally receive through organic discovery.
According to the report, creators, brands, and business accounts are expected to benefit by reaching more users, faster. At the same time, the platform ensures that these promotions won’t compromise WhatsApp’s privacy standards.
Transparency Features and AI Tools in Development
In a previous update (beta version 2.25.19.15), WhatsApp for Android reportedly started testing a feature that lets users download detailed ad reports. These reports include data about the ads viewed, the advertisers, and the dates the ads were displayed in the Status and Channels sections. This is part of WhatsApp’s effort to maintain transparency while introducing monetization options.
In addition, WhatsApp is also testing new AI-powered features. These include smarter ways to interact with support chats, upcoming tools like an AI chatbot for product recommendations, and an AI-generated chat wallpaper feature for iOS users.
