WhatsApp Surpasses 3 Billion Monthly Users, Boosting Meta’s AI Push
WhatsApp now boasts over 3 billion monthly active users, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced during the company’s Q1 earnings call on Wednesday.
Founded in 2009 and acquired by Facebook for $19 billion in 2014, WhatsApp has grown steadily over the years — jumping from 2 billion monthly users in 2020 to crossing the 3 billion mark today. This achievement places it among the world’s most widely used apps, alongside Facebook itself.
With such a massive user base, WhatsApp has become a key pillar in Meta’s ambitious AI plans. Meta CFO Susan Li highlighted that WhatsApp is currently the company’s strongest platform for AI engagement, especially through one-on-one chats where users interact with Meta’s AI services.
Zuckerberg acknowledged, however, that in the U.S., Meta faces challenges since most people prefer native phone messaging apps. That’s where the newly launched standalone Meta AI app comes in, aiming to establish a stronger presence in the American messaging market.
On the business side, WhatsApp Business has emerged as a major revenue driver, contributing significantly to Meta’s $510 million app-family revenue. Meta is also testing advanced AI tools for businesses, including an AI management dashboard that allows companies to train Meta AI using data from their websites, WhatsApp profiles, and Instagram or Facebook pages. Additionally, businesses may soon deploy AI chatbots in customer conversations, enhancing service and automation.
As WhatsApp’s influence continues to grow, it’s clear the app will play a central role in Meta’s evolving AI-driven ecosystem.