WhatsApp Users Can Choose: Pay or View Ads

WhatsApp, the leading messenger service in many countries, has been free of charge but is now preparing to introduce a significant change.

Meta has long been planning to introduce advertising on WhatsApp, with the implementation set for this year. However, users will have the option to pay for an ad-free experience.

Responding to EU and UK regulations mandating user choice between ad-supported and ad-free options, WhatsApp’s subscription model is set to cost approximately €4 per month, similar to approaches taken by major streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max.

How much will WhatsApp without ads cost?

Early indications from a beta version of WhatsApp suggest that the ad-free subscription will be priced at €4 per month. This pricing model is expected to be similar in the UK, where Meta has already provided users on Instagram with the option to pay from £3.99 monthly for an ad-free experience.

Users will have the option to subscribe to the ad-free service through the Google Play Store. Those who opt out will see advertisements in the WhatsApp status area, while chats will remain free of ads.

While the final pricing is yet to be confirmed, the current indication of €4 per month may deter many users from opting for the ad-free subscription.

When are WhatsApp ads coming?

As of now, there is no fixed date for the rollout of ads on WhatsApp.

Meta recently announced a postponement of ad implementation until 2026. However, indications from the beta version suggest that the change could happen sooner rather than later.

In the US, WhatsApp users are already starting to see advertisements, marking a significant shift as Meta transitions to monetize the popular messaging platform.