WhatsApp appears to be planning an ad-free subscription option as Meta continues to introduce advertisements across its platforms.
Last year, the messaging app began testing ads in its Status and Channels sections, and recent findings suggest users could eventually pay to remove them.
New code strings in WhatsApp version 2.26.3.9 reference a subscription that would eliminate ads from Status and Channels. The text implies that users may have the choice to continue using these features for free with ads or pay a monthly fee for an ad-free experience.
One message also hints at pricing changes connected to Meta’s Accounts Centre, suggesting the company is preparing a more formal subscription system.
Meta’s introduction of ads to WhatsApp Status and Channels faced user backlash during its limited testing last year. Despite criticism, the company has continued rolling out ads to more users.
Ad-free subscription options already exist on Facebook and Instagram in select regions, allowing users to avoid ads for a monthly charge. WhatsApp may follow a similar model as Meta seeks to balance revenue growth with user choice.
Details such as the cost of the WhatsApp ad-free subscription and the regions where it would be available remain unknown. Meta has previously limited ad-free features on Facebook and Instagram to a few countries, and this may also apply to WhatsApp. No official announcement has been made regarding the launch.
