Meta has announced new monetisation features for WhatsApp, targeting creators and businesses in Nigeria and other global markets. The updates, which will be rolled out in the coming months, are designed to transform WhatsApp into a revenue-generating platform while maintaining user privacy.
According to a report by The Trumpet, the new features include channel subscriptions, promoted channels, and advertisements in WhatsApp Status. The tools are integrated into the “Updates” tab and are intended to offer creators new earning opportunities without affecting private chats.
One of the major additions is Channel Subscriptions, where users will pay a monthly fee to access exclusive updates from creators, media outlets, or sports organisations. Meta also introduced Promoted Channels, which allow creators and businesses to pay for increased visibility, with suggestions tailored to users’ interests.
Another monetisation feature is Status Ads, similar to Instagram Stories, where users can view image or video advertisements between regular updates. Businesses will be able to promote their offerings and interact with potential customers directly through these ads.
Amid growing concerns about user data, Meta stated that the monetisation features will not compromise the platform’s end-to-end encryption. “We’ll never sell or share your phone number with advertisers,” the company said, adding that only basic information like users’ city, language, and interactions will be used to personalise ads.
Meta’s move comes as the company faces regulatory scrutiny, including a \$220 million fine recently imposed by the Nigerian government. Despite the pressure, the new features will be available in Nigeria, with no exclusions announced.
Additionally, Meta confirmed that WhatsApp will stop functioning on some older Android and iOS devices. Users with unsupported phones have been advised to upgrade to continue accessing the app.
The changes position WhatsApp as more than just a messaging platform, with expanded functionality for digital marketing, content creation, and business engagement.
