WhatsApp has recently introduced ads in the status updates and home page sections of the app, and unsurprisingly, many users are unhappy with it. Promoted content in a messaging platform can feel intrusive, especially for those who value a clean and distraction-free experience. If you are someone who can’t stand ads popping up in WhatsApp, you are not alone. In this guide, we will walk you through two effective ways to block all ads in WhatsApp for a clutter-free messaging experience.

Block Ads in WhatsApp Status Updates

The most annoying ad placement in WhatsApp is in the status updates section. The app now inserts promoted content between two updates, similar to what we see in Instagram stories. The new change also brings sponsored suggestions in the channels section, which is again highly intrusive. Thankfully, we can block all these ads by using a simple VPN or by using the desktop client of WhatsApp.

Using AdGuard VPN App

The AdGuard VPN app uses a private DNS that filters out all ads on your device. This means it not only blocks ads in WhatsApp, but it also removes ads from all other apps and websites on your smartphone. It works on both Android and iOS. Here’s how you can use it:

1. If you are an iPhone user, download the AdGuard app from the Apple App Store. Android users should manually download the APK file from the official AdGuard website. (The Google Play Store version does not support ad filtering).

2. Open the AdGuard app and allow permissions to set up the VPN.

3. Enable the protection toggle on the home page of the app.

4. Ensure that the VPN symbol is visible in the notification shade of your phone. This reflects that AdGuard has been enabled successfully.

AdGuard will start blocking all ads in WhatsApp and other apps on your phone. You can view the metrics in the app.

Use WhatsApp Desktop Client

As of now, WhatsApp has brought ads only to the mobile app. The desktop client and web version do not have any advertisements. You can use the WhatsApp Linked Devices feature to use the app on your computer, even when your phone is not connected to the internet. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Download the official desktop client from the WhatsApp website.

2. Install it, and set up your account using Linked Devices.

3. Alternatively, you can also use WhatsApp in a web browser at web.whatsapp.com, and follow the same procedure.

Now you can view status updates and explore channels in WhatsApp without any ads. However, it is possible that Meta may bring ads to the desktop version in the future. But until that happens, this is an excellent working and safe solution to the platform without the nuisance of ads.

FAQs

Q. Is AdGuard safe to use?

AdGuard uses a custom DNS to filter out ads. It retains HTTPS certification, which keeps your private information encrypted and secure. Hence, it is safe to use AdGuard, but ensure that you are using the official version.

Q. Can I use an older version of WhatsApp to remove ads?

Yes, you can use an older version of WhatsApp to remove ads. However, this is only a temporary solution as eventually you will be forced to update to the new version.

Q. Does AdGuard affect internet speed?

You may experience a 5-10% reduction in your internet speed while using ADGuard. However, the difference is not that huge, and you will not experience any major slowdown for regular usage.

Q. Does WhatsApp have a premium ad-free version?

Currently, Meta and WhatsApp have not announced any plans for a premium ad-free version.

Q. Can I block specific ads in WhatsApp?

WhatsApp uses targeted advertising based on your search history and interactions on other Meta apps (Facebook, Instagram, etc). You can use the not interested option or mark ads as irrelevant to block certain ads.

Wrapping Up

The introduction of ads in WhatsApp is annoying for all users, as the app has remained ad-free since its inception over a decade ago. Using simple methods like AdGuard DNS and VPN, you can block these ads and have a smooth messaging experience. We also strongly advise you to avoid using cracked or modified versions of WhatsApp to get rid of the ads.

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• How to Create WhatsApp Stickers Using Camera
• Detect AI Scams on WhatsApp Using Norton Genie

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