WhatsApp is rolling out some major updates to its Updates tab, aiming to make it more than just a space for Status and Channels. With over 1.5 billion users using the Updates tab daily, Meta is now introducing new tools to help admins, businesses, and organisations grow and engage their audiences more effectively.
These features are designed to enhance discovery, monetisation, and promotion on the platform without touching your personal chats or compromising your privacy.
What’s New on WhatsApp?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the three new features now coming to the Updates tab:
Channel Subscriptions
You’ll soon be able to subscribe to your favourite Channels for a monthly fee. This gives admins the chance to share exclusive content with supporters, creating a new way for creators and organisations to earn on WhatsApp.
Think of it like Patreon, but right inside WhatsApp.
Promoted Channels
WhatsApp will now show recommended or promoted Channels when users search in the Channel directory. This is a big win for admins, as it’s the first time WhatsApp is offering a way to boost visibility and grow an audience organically within the app.
If you’re managing a Channel, this could help you reach thousands of new followers without relying on external promotion.
Status Ads
Businesses and Channels can now pay to appear in the WhatsApp Status section, placing their content directly in front of users in between Status updates from friends and family. These ads are clickable and can lead to chats, helping you start real-time conversations about a product or service.
This update turns Status into a powerful advertising tool while keeping user interaction native to WhatsApp.
What About Privacy?
Meta reassures users that these updates do not affect their personal chats. All your private messages, calls, and statuses remain end-to-end encrypted, just like before. WhatsApp says even they can’t read your messages and that won’t change.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Users: You’ll now see more relevant content and have the option to support Channels you love.
- Creators & Admins: You have new monetisation and promotion tools built right into WhatsApp.
- Businesses: You can now advertise directly within WhatsApp Status and get discovered by new customers.
Final Thoughts
With these changes, WhatsApp is clearly evolving beyond messaging and becoming a platform for content, community, and commerce. Whether you’re a business owner, content creator, or just an everyday user, these tools are opening up new ways to connect, earn, and discover all within the familiar WhatsApp environment.
Keep an eye on your Updates tab because these new features are rolling out soon.
