We don’t typically cover such simple cosmetic updates headed for WhatsApp, but this time is different. On the surface, the change spotted in the latest WhatsApp build on TestFlight looks harmless. It aims to move WhatsApp’s Status updates (think ‘Stories’ on Instagram) right to the ‘Chats’ tab — AKA your home screen.
No big deal, right? It may be a little more annoying to see those coloured rings as you open the app, but some might actually prefer the change. Our issue lies with the app’s intent to eventually introduce advertising to the messenger, which the company made clear would be wedged between Status updates, far from the home page.
So that was a lie
That was WhatsApp’s stance on the subject back in June 2025, so it’s possible plans have changed internally. We doubt it — sticking ads into the Chats tab would generate more money, it’s true. And with so many relying on the free app, it’s unlikely to drive users away. And with talk of WhatsApp ‘Plus’ in the works, which will likely remove ads for a monthly fee, a la Instagram, we believe we’ll be locked into the change for good.
“These new features will appear only on the Updates tab, away from your personal chats. This means if you only use WhatsApp to chat with friends and loved ones there is no change to your experience at all,” WhatsApp said in 2025. “We’ve been talking about our plans to build a business that does not interrupt your personal chats for years and we believe the Updates tab is the right place for these new features to work.”
Read More: WhatsApp ‘Plus’ could be Meta’s latest money-grubbing scheme
Fortunately, the update doesn’t appear to be on the release radar anytime soon. WABetaInfo noticed the change in the 26.14.10.70 update on the TestFlight app. The same changes were also noticed inside the latest Android build. Despite this, the feature hasn’t been made available, even to those enrolled in the beta program. That suggests the update is still in the early days of construction. Take your time, Meta. We can wait.
It’s worth noting that statuses can already be viewed from the home page by clicking on a recent contact’s profile picture if they have shared an update. This, however, is limited to just that story, and no one else’s. With a row of Stories planted firmly at the top of the screen, it hopes to lock users in. The more eyeballs on ads, the better.
