WHATSAPP is currently rolling out a new update that will see in-app adverts added to the user experience.
The strategy was devised by Meta to make the messaging app a multifunctional platform.
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Derived as part of WhatsApp’s wider monetisation strategy, the ads will only appear in certain sections of the app.
According to Meta, they will be found under the Updates tab, where users can post statuses.
This section also contains Channels, which users can follow and interact with.
Adverts will be tailored to individual users based on the information you share with Whatsapp.
This includes details on your location, language, the Channels you follow, and how you interact with the ads you see.
You ad preferences will also be drawn upon if you’ve added WhatsApp to Meta’s Accounts Center.
The new update will not affect other areas of the popular messaging app.
This means that private messages and chats won’t be affected by adverts.
WhatsApp said the new features will be gradually rolling out globally over the coming months.
“Like everything we do at WhatsApp, we’ve built these features in the most private way possible,” a rep explained.
“Your personal messages, calls, and statuses remain end-to-end encrypted, meaning no one (not even us) can see or hear them.”
The company stressed that the classic WhatsApp messaging format will remain unaffected.
It comes after a backlash over increased AI taking space on the main page.
“These new features will appear only on the Updates tab, away from your personal chats,” WhatsApp said.
“This means if you only use WhatsApp to chat with friends and loved ones there is no change to your experience at all.”
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The app’s private messages, calls, and statuses will continue to be protected by end-to-end encryption.
The first wave of ads were rolled out in the Updates section of WhatsApp on Monday, June 16.
In addition to adverts, WhatsApp has also introduced paid subscriptions for Channel.
Businesses can also promote their Channel’s within the WhatsApp directory.
There’s also Promoted Channels, allowing people to boost their channel’s visibility – at a cost.
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