Last week, WhatsApp introduced two new subscription plans and significantly expanded opportunities for channel creators. The main trend is the development of an ecosystem with new monetization methods and increased audience engagement.
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Ad-Free Paid Subscription for Users in Europe and the UK
WhatsApp is working on an optional subscription that will allow users in Europe and the UK to avoid ads in the “Updates” tab.
How it will work
An optional paid subscription will be available for users in regions with strict digital laws (Europe and the UK). By activating it, users will completely disable ads and promoted channels in the “Updates” tab. The subscription will be managed through the Google Play Store.
Why it’s needed
This is WhatsApp’s response to regulatory requirements, giving users control over their advertising experience. The subscription allows users to enjoy statuses and channels without any promotional interstitials.
Status
Feature in development (WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.3.9). The estimated price is approximately €4 per month, but the final price is subject to change.
Premium Subscription with Exclusive Features
WhatsApp is working on an additional subscription plan that will provide access to exclusive features.
How it will work
This is a separate paid plan that does not include ad blocking. Subscribers will receive a set of exclusive features: premium stickers, additional themes, the ability to pin more than three chats, unique ringtones for chats, and custom app icons.
Why it’s needed
To offer additional features to users who want a more personalized experience. Basic functionality and privacy will remain free for everyone.
Status
This feature is in active development (WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.4.8). A waiting list is planned for access. The price and exact list of features are subject to change.
Channel Statuses
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to share status updates from their channels.
How it will work
Channel administrators will be able to publish “Statuses”—temporary content (photos, videos, voice messages) that disappear after 24 hours. These statuses can be viewed and responded to directly in the “Updates” tab.
Why it’s needed
This gives channel creators a flexible tool for informal communication with subscribers, announcements, and audience engagement through ephemeral content (content available for a limited time).
Status
This feature is in development (WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.4.5).
“Thinking” Mode for Meta AI
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will enable the logical thinking capabilities of its built-in AI.
How it will work
In chat with Meta AI, a toggle will appear between Quick Mode and Thinking Mode. The latter will allow the AI to analyze complex queries for longer, providing more detailed, structured, and accurate answers for solving multi-step problems.
Why it’s needed
To transform the built-in assistant into a more powerful tool for analysis, comparison, and planning, rivaling advanced AI assistants.
Status
Feature in development (WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.3.10).
Marking paid partnerships in channels
WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to mark channel updates as paid partnerships.
How it will work
When publishing a sponsored post in a channel, the administrator will be able to add a permanent “Paid Partnership” label. The label will remain even when forwarding the update, ensuring transparency for the audience.
Why it’s needed
To comply with ethical standards and advertising guidelines. This feature helps channel creators clearly mark commercial content, maintaining subscriber trust.
Status
Feature in development (WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.4.10).
Search history in chats
WhatsApp is introducing a feature to display recent search queries in chats.
How it will work
A “Recent Searches” section will appear under the search bar in the “Chats” tab. It will store recent queries for contacts, groups, and communities for quick access.
Why it’s needed
To speed up navigation in frequently used conversations, especially in large work chats and communities. Search queries are stored only locally on the device.
Status
The feature is rolling out to all WhatsApp for Android 2.26.3.80 users after beta testing.
Conclusion
This week’s summary: WhatsApp is taking strategic steps to build a multi-tiered monetization model. In addition to advertising for businesses, there are now paid options for users (no advertising, premium) and new professional tools for creators (statuses, partnerships). This demonstrates the platform’s desire to create a sustainable economy for content creators, while simultaneously giving regular users a choice: a free experience with advertising or a paid one with additional benefits. opportunities.