August 3, 2018, 1:29 pm | Read time: 1 minute
The founders of WhatsApp had always opposed advertising in the messaging app. Since Facebook took control, this has changed. Now, ads are set to be introduced.
WhatsApp will be filled with ads starting in 2019. However, the ads will not appear in private WhatsApp chats but will be placed in the “Status” section. This was announced by WhatsApp CEO Matt Idema.
With the “Status” format, WhatsApp aimed to capitalize on Snapchat’s success: Users can share photos, videos, texts, and GIFs that disappear after 24 hours. The feature is currently used by about 450 million people.
Break with the Principles of WhatsApp’s Founders
WhatsApp founders Jan Koum and Brian Acton had repeatedly spoken out against funding the service through advertising. However, they have left the Facebook corporation, which owns WhatsApp. WhatsApp users will be able to choose whether they want to see ads or not.
The planned ad revenue is intended to help bring WhatsApp out of the red. At the same time, Idema announced plans to generate revenue through partnerships with larger companies. WhatsApp will soon allow larger firms to communicate directly with customers on a large scale via the messenger.