But if it doesn't charge users and doesn't display ads, how does it make money?
Let’s explore the main ways the app is monetized and how it stands out among other messaging apps .
How WhatsApp Monetizes Businesses
WhatsApp doesn't charge people who use the app for personal conversations, but it indonesia mobile number makes money from companies that use the platform to communicate with their customers.
Businesses can send messages on WhatsApp to promote their products, provide support, or close sales. This communication can be done directly in the chat. This allows the app to become a powerful tool for businesses.
For example, some companies already allow customers to buy products, book flights and even make payments directly through the app. In addition, they pay to advertise on Facebook or Instagram with links that lead directly to conversations. This integration between Meta’s platforms generates billions of dollars.
Integration with other social networks
WhatsApp is part of Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram. This means that businesses can leverage social media to create marketing campaigns and, at the same time, integrate those campaigns with the messaging app.
One example is the ability to click on an ad on Facebook and immediately start a WhatsApp chat with the advertised company.
This not only improves the customer experience, but also increases the chances of conversion for businesses. Exchanging messages with a business quickly and directly facilitates the purchase and support process. It’s an effective strategy that helps WhatsApp make money without having to charge its users directly.
Comparison with other messaging apps
While WhatsApp focuses on monetizing corporate messaging, other messaging apps have different business models. Signal, for example, is a platform that relies on donations. Telegram, on the other hand, relies on investors to fund its operations.
Others, like Discord, use a freemium model, where basic usage is free, but there are paid features, like Nitro, which offers more features for a monthly subscription. Snapchat, on the other hand, combines paid subscriptions, like Snapchat+, with the sale of ads and other products, like augmented reality glasses.