A paid, ad-free subscription is set to be introduced in the popular messaging application WhatsApp. The removal of advertisements will be accessible within the “Updates” tab, according to reports from WABetaInfo.
Specifically, investigators uncovered a new feature within the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, identified as build number 2.26.3.9. This addition primarily targets regions and nations where advertising features—such as ads within statuses, sponsored channels, and direct advertisements—were implemented last year. These elements currently appear in the “Updates” section and do not impact users’ private information, chats, calls, or groups.
Information gleaned from the WhatsApp beta application suggests this will be an optional subscription service. Upon activation, all advertisements and sponsored channels within the “Updates” tab will be entirely eliminated. This subscription service is expected to be offered to users in Europe and the United Kingdom, fulfilling a regulatory requirement imposed by local authorities. Consequently, users will be granted a choice: either continue using the service with advertisements or pay a fee to opt out of viewing them.
It is speculated that the monthly cost for this subscription will be set at 4 Euros. The precise timeline for when this new feature will roll out to the general user base remains unconfirmed.
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