Facebook debunks rumors about WhatsApp ads waiving

Facebook still intends to place ads in WhatsApp, but has postponed this project. According to previous rumors, Facebook had abandoned this plan altogether, fearing the consequences of the ads.

According to The Information, Facebook first wants to merge the underlying platforms for its messaging apps before serving the ads. Facebook announced the merger of its messaging services last year. With the universal chat function, users can send an encrypted message to a WhatsApp user from Messenger, for example. When this universal chat structure is ready, WhatsApp would get ads. It is unknown when this will be completed. Facebook talks about a ‘multi-year plan’.

The news site also writes how Facebook wants to show targeted ads to users. By comparing phone numbers, the company could link Facebook and WhatsApp accounts internally. This allows the company to use a Facebook user’s advertising profile for targeted advertising to a WhatsApp user.

This plan would be controversial within Facebook. Board members are said to be concerned that WhatsApp users will choose to delete their Facebook profile because of the ads. There would also be fears about the reactions of competition authorities. Facebook confirms to Engadget that ‘advertising within Status remains a long-term opportunity’.

Earlier this year, The Wall Street Journal reported that Facebook would opt out of WhatsApp ads. According to this rumor, Facebook had decided to make money by providing services to businesses instead. Facebook is now denying that rumor. The ads in the Status feature become full screen ads. Status allows users to post images, texts, and videos, which are available to contacts for 24 hours.