Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is shaking things up once again. Starting this month, the tech giant is rolling out a suite of monetization features aimed at turning WhatsApp into more than just a private messaging app — it’s becoming a serious platform for creators, brands, and entrepreneurs.
While these features are launching gradually across the globe, it’s clear that Meta has a long-term vision to make WhatsApp a powerful business and content platform, especially in markets like Nigeria, India, Brazil, and others where WhatsApp dominates.
If you’re a small business owner, content creator, or brand looking to grow on WhatsApp, here’s everything you need to know — and how to prepare.
What Are the New WhatsApp Monetization Features?
Meta is introducing three core monetization tools, all housed within WhatsApp’s Updates tab:
1. Channel Subscriptions
WhatsApp channel owners will now be able to charge followers a monthly fee for exclusive content. This is a big step toward creator monetization, similar to Patreon or YouTube Memberships.
I'm Thinking: Fan clubs, educational series, early content access, or premium updates — all delivered through WhatsApp.
2. Promoted Channels
Businesses can now promote their channels directly within WhatsApp’s search and explore tab — increasing discoverability and growth. Paid promotion will give creators and brands a faster way to grow their audience.
This feature mirrors Facebook and Instagram Boost but tailored for WhatsApp users.
3. Ads in Status Updates
WhatsApp will begin showing ads inside the “Status” feature, similar to Instagram Stories. These ads will be:
- Targeted based on language, country, followed channels, and limited interaction history.
- Not based on private chats or messages.
This is the first major step toward full in-app advertising on WhatsApp.
Why This Rollout Matters (Especially for African & Emerging Markets)
With over 1.5 billion users accessing the Updates tab daily, WhatsApp is no longer just a messaging app — it’s becoming a super-app, following in the footsteps of China’s WeChat.
Here’s why that’s important:
- Africa and South Asia are mobile-first markets, and WhatsApp is the most trusted communication tool in these regions.
- Creators, solopreneurs, and small businesses now have a new way to make money without leaving the app.
- Businesses can reach customers where they already spend their time — on WhatsApp, not on traditional websites.
This is a massive opportunity for entrepreneurs who move early.
What About Privacy?
Many users are understandably concerned about how ads and paid content will affect their privacy on WhatsApp. Meta has stated that:
- Chats, calls, and personal statuses remain end-to-end encrypted.
- Ads will not use your messages, contact lists, or phone numbers for targeting.
- Monetization tools will be opt-in, giving creators control over pricing and content.
In other words: your private messages stay private, even as WhatsApp becomes more commercial.
Rollout Timeline: When Will You See These Features?
Meta confirmed that the rollout began on June 16, 2025, and will expand gradually over the next few months.
If you haven’t seen them yet:
- Update your WhatsApp to the latest version.
- Keep an eye on your Updates tab.
- Visit WhatsApp’s official blog for announcements.
How Can You Prepare to Monetize on WhatsApp?
1. Start a High-Value Channel Now
Even before subscriptions launch in your region, begin building a free channel with valuable content:
- Share tips, resources, updates, or community content.
- Build trust and engagement so followers are more likely to subscribe when paid options open.
2. Segment Your Audience
Understand who’s following you. If you're a business, create lists:
- Customers
- Leads
- VIPs
3. Create a Content Plan
People will pay for consistency and value. Ask yourself:
- What content can I deliver weekly that’s worth paying for?
- Can I offer behind-the-scenes, first-access, or Q&A formats?
- Will I include community perks like polls, resources, or discounts?
4. Budget for Promoted Channel Ads
Once the promotion tools go live:
- Allocate a small monthly ad budget.
- Target users by location, interest, and language.
- Run test campaigns to grow your followers fast.
Want to see how WhatsApp monetization is already working in some countries? Check out our live update: WhatsApp Monetization Features Are Now Live.
If you're also looking to earn independently, don't miss this guide on how to get paid to write on Fiverr.
Table of Features
| Feature | What It Does | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Subscriptions | Charge monthly fees for exclusive content | Creators, educators, influencers |
| Promoted Channels | Boost channel visibility through in-app promotion | Businesses, solopreneurs |
| Ads in Status | Run targeted ads in WhatsApp Status | Brands, marketers, local sellers |
This is only the beginning. Meta is quietly transforming WhatsApp into a platform for commerce, content, and community — and those who start building now will benefit the most.
Whether you’re a side-hustler, content creator, coach, teacher, or online seller — WhatsApp is opening new doors to grow your audience and generate revenue directly inside the app.
Stay tuned to FaithfulBiz as we break down each of these features in detail — with step-by-step guides on:
- Setting up your WhatsApp Channel
- Pricing your subscription content
- Running your first promoted channel ad
Subscribe to our blog or follow us on WhatsApp for alerts.
Will you monetize your WhatsApp channel?
Tell us in the comments what features you’re most excited about — and what kind of content or business you plan to build!
Sources: These updates were officially confirmed by Meta on June 16, 2025, and have been reported by:
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