WhatsApp might start charging users for extra features

WhatsApp has avoided the subscription craze longer than most apps. But that streak might soon be over. 

New findings spotted by WABetaInfo suggest that Meta is testing a premium tier called WhatsApp Plus, which could add extra customisation and power-user features. But before we dive into that, don’t panic – the standard version of the app will reportedly remain free, with the Plus tier simply adding optional extras for people who want a more customised experience.

As for the rumoured paid perks, most appear to focus on personalisation. Early references suggest WhatsApp Plus subscribers could gain access to around 14 additional app icons, along with new accent colours and interface themes to tweak how the app looks.

There are also some more practical upgrades reportedly in the works. The paid tier could allow users to pin up to 20 chats at the top of their inbox, compared with the current limit of just three. That might not sound revolutionary, but for people juggling work chats, family groups and endless existential crisis meme threads, the extra space could prove surprisingly useful.

Other reported extras include exclusive stickers, custom ringtones and more immersive message reactions, although it’s not yet entirely clear how those reactions might work in practice.

If true, this approach would mirror what other messaging platforms already offer. Telegram, for example, has a Premium tier that unlocks cosmetic tweaks and extra features while leaving the core messaging service free for everyone.

It would also mark another step in Meta’s gradual effort to monetise WhatsApp, which has historically been harder to squeeze revenue from than Facebook or Instagram. The app’s private messaging model leaves far fewer obvious places to show ads, thank the tech gods.

Exactly how much WhatsApp Plus might cost remains unclear for now, and Meta hasn’t officially confirmed the feature yet, but we’ll keep an eye out for more info, as and when it comes in.

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Esat Dedezade Contributor

About

Esat has been a gadget fan ever since his tiny four-year-old brain was captivated by a sound-activated dancing sunflower. From there it was a natural progression to a Sega Mega Drive, a brief obsession with hedgehogs, and a love for all things tech. After 7 years as a writer and deputy editor for Stuff, Esat ventured out into the corporate world, spending three years as Editor of Microsoft's European News Centre. Now a freelance writer, his appetite for shiny gadgets has no bounds. Oh, and like all good human beings, he's very fond of cats.