WhatsApp head Will Cathcart confirms that the messaging app's main chat list will remain ad-free, signaling a strategic focus on business messaging rather than display advertising to monetize its 2-billion user base. While the inbox remains protected, Meta explores revenue opportunities in features like Status and Channels, following a model similar to Instagram Stories. The company aims to generate billions through its “WhatsApp Business Platform” and “click-to-message” ads, which already have a $10 billion annual revenue run rate.
WhatsApp leadership pledges ad-free inbox amid monetization push
Paul Drecksler is the founder and editor of Shopifreaks E-commerce Newsletter, covering the most important stories in e-commerce.
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