Latest WhatsApp Business Features: A Running List

TL;DR

• Brands can now advertise on WhatsApp Status.
• Users can subscribe to their favorite WhatsApp channels.
• Businesses can promote their WhatsApp channels within the app

What’s New with WhatsApp Business?

That’s a lingering question in the back of every marketer’s mind, because Meta loves rolling out new features. But keeping up with all the updates can be a tad overwhelming. 

Don’t worry, dear weary friend. This is a safe space and central hub for all those who are seeking answers about WhatsApp Business’s latest updates. 

P.S. Bookmark this post—you’ll be back.

WhatsApp Introduces Ads in Status and Channels

Ever opened the Updates tab on WhatsApp and mindlessly tapped through updates? Well, you’re not alone. Over 1.5 billion users visit the Updates tab every day to get Status updates or view Channels from people and organizations they are interested in. 

Seems like an untapped opportunity to reach your target audience, right?

Meta thought so, too. That’s why they’ve introduced three major updates:

Ads in Status 

You can now advertise your product or service on WhatsApp status. These ads appear as users casually scroll through updates. Viewers can message your business directly from the ad and kick-start a conversation. 

What This Means for Your Brand:

• More visibility for your business
• Higher intent engagement from users already active on WhatsApp
• And since user-initiated conversations are free for 24 hours, you’re getting cost-effective conversions

Channel Subscriptions

Users can now subscribe to their favorite WhatsApp channels for a monthly fee. In return, they get exclusive content and updates from the brands, creators, or communities they care about most.

What This Means for Your Brand:

• You can build a loyal, paying community right within WhatsApp
• Narrow your audience down to high-intent followers who genuinely want to hear from you
• Share premium content like early access, behind-the-scenes updates, or members-only deals

Promoted Channels:

Brands promote their WhatsApp channels directly within the app’s search and discovery section, similar to Instagram’s suggested accounts feature. 

What This Means for Your Brand:

• Get discovered by new users who are actively exploring channels.
• Drive visibility inside WhatsApp without depending on other platforms.
• Boost visibility during product launches, seasonal campaigns, or key moments.

These updates have opened up new avenues for marketers to reach their prospects directly.

What new features will WhatsApp announce next? Keep an eye on this post to find out!

Last Updated on June 17, 2025.

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