×
App Icon
The Standard e-Paper
Read Offline Anywhere
★★★★ - on Play Store
Download Now

WhatsApp introduces first major advertising features

Vocalize Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Vocalize

WhatsApp on the App Store displayed on a phone screen is seen in this illustration photo taken in Krakow, Poland on June 7, 2025. [AFP]

WhatsApp announced Monday it will introduce its boldest advertising features yet, marking a significant shift for the messaging platform that has largely remained ad-free since its launch.

The move is a sensitive one for WhatsApp, whose chief firmly denied a report in 2023 that said the Meta-owned app was exploring advertisements as it sought to boost revenue.

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.
Bold Reporting Takes Time, Courage and Investment. Stand With Us.
  • Unlimited access to all premium content
  • Uninterrupted ad-free browsing experience
  • Mobile-optimized reading experience
  • Weekly Newsletters
  • MPesa, Airtel Money and Cards accepted
Already a subscriber? Log in
Sports
Athletics stars set for a tough battle for honors at Sirikwa Classic
Sports
Kenya's Mediratta among latest entrant into MKO
Sports
Ulisi rewarded after historic continental win with Lakers
By AFP 16 hrs ago
Football
Anti-racism body slams Man United co-owner for 'disgraceful' immigration comments