WhatsApp Plus Subscription Testing Begins on Android Beta; Check Price, Features Here

WhatsApp is testing a new optional subscription service called "WhatsApp Plus," which introduces a suite of personalisation tools and interface controls for users. The feature is currently being rolled out to a limited number of Android beta testers. The move represents a significant shift for the Meta-owned platform, offering a premium tier for those seeking more control over the app’s visual and functional experience while maintaining the core messaging service free for all users.

According to a report, the subscription is reportedly priced at approximately EUR 2.49 (around INR 275) per month in Europe, though regional pricing for other markets like India has not yet been confirmed. The plan follows a monthly billing cycle with automatic renewal and may include a free trial period for eligible testers. OpenAI Integrates ‘Images 2.0’ Into ChatGPT With Advanced Reasoning and Realistic Output Capabilities.

WhatsApp Expands Personalisation and Custom Themes

The most visible changes in the WhatsApp Plus tier involve the app’s aesthetic. Subscribers can choose from 18 new colour themes, including options such as Royal Purple, Deep Navy, and Forest Green. Once selected, the theme is applied across the entire interface, replacing the signature WhatsApp green.

Additionally, the premium plan offers 14 custom app icons, ranging from minimalist circular designs to artistic textured styles like "cosmic" and "glitter" effects. Users also gain access to exclusive sticker packs featuring animated overlay effects that appear across the recipient's screen, even if the receiver is not a subscriber.

WhatsApp Plus Offers Enhanced Functional Tools and Chat Management

Beyond visual changes, the "Plus" tier includes functional upgrades for heavy users. Subscribers can pin up to 20 chats to the top of their chat list, a significant increase from the current limit of three. This feature is designed to help users manage high volumes of conversations without constant scrolling.

The update also simplifies bulk customisation. Users can apply specific themes and notification tones to multiple chats simultaneously, with the app automatically updating new conversations to match these preferences. Furthermore, ten exclusive ringtones are included to provide more variety for voice and video calls.

WhatsApp Core Features and Privacy Remain Unchanged

WhatsApp has reportedly clarified that the introduction of a paid tier will not impact the fundamental app experience for non-subscribers. Essential features, including standard messaging, voice calls, and status updates, will remain free.

Crucially, the platform’s security framework remains consistent across both tiers. All messages and calls will continue to be protected by end-to-end encryption, ensuring that the privacy standards for subscribers and non-subscribers remain identical.

WhatsApp Plus Availability and Future Rollout

Currently, WhatsApp Plus is restricted to the Android beta channel for a small group of users. While a specific date for a stable, global release has not been set, the platform is expected to extend support to iOS and a wider user base following the initial testing phase. How China’s Super Brain Creates AI Clones of the Deceased.

The introduction of a subscription model aligns WhatsApp with other messaging competitors like Telegram, which launched its own "Premium" service in 2022. This strategy allows the platform to generate direct revenue from power users while keeping the primary service accessible to its more than two billion monthly active users.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 22, 2026 03:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).