- tech360.tv
WhatsApp Denies Reports of Exploring Ads on the Platform
Updated: Jan 9
WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, has denied a report by the Financial Times that claimed the messaging platform was considering the introduction of advertisements to boost its revenue.
The report suggested that Meta was discussing the possibility of showing ads in lists of conversations with contacts on the WhatsApp chat screen.
However, WhatsApp's head, Will Cathcart, took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to refute the claims, stating, "This @FT story is false. We aren't doing this."
While WhatsApp is seen as a potential growth opportunity for Meta, with over 2 billion monthly active users, the majority of its revenue currently comes from its platform for small and medium-sized businesses. The report also mentioned that Meta was considering the option of charging a subscription fee for an ad-free experience on WhatsApp.
The potential introduction of ads on WhatsApp has raised concerns among users who fear that it could disrupt the user experience. AJ Bell analyst Danni Hewson commented that while advertising on the messaging app could be a lucrative move, it may feel intrusive and clunky.
Hewson also noted that the swift denial from Meta suggests that the company is aware of the potential backlash and that the idea of introducing ads on WhatsApp seems unlikely for now.
WhatsApp's revenue figures have not been disclosed by Meta, but according to financial data firm Visible Alpha, the messaging service generated $1.06 billion in sales in the last quarter, accounting for only 3% of Meta's total revenue. Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has previously stated that WhatsApp and Messenger are expected to drive the company's future sales growth, with business messaging being a significant focus.
WhatsApp denies reports of exploring ads on its platform, refuting claims made by the Financial Times.
Meta was reportedly discussing the possibility of showing ads in lists of conversations on the WhatsApp chat screen.
WhatsApp's head, Will Cathcart, stated on social media that the report is false.
WhatsApp currently generates most of its revenue from its platform for small and medium-sized businesses.
The potential introduction of ads on WhatsApp may face resistance from users and is seen as unlikely for now.
Source: REUTERS