WhatsApp banks on business messaging over ads for revenue

Facebook Inc. makes almost all of its money through advertising. But it’s trying a different approach with its WhatsApp unit.

The world’s most popular messaging service is pushing more aggressively into customer service features, including a pay-to-message option for businesses, and says it’s focusing on enterprise tools, not advertising. WhatsApp paused plans for targeted advertising late last year, surprising those who thought it would follow in line with its parent company.