WhatsApp Tests New ‘Plus’ Subscription Tier with Advanced Customisation Features

WhatsApp is reportedly exploring a new subscription-based model called “WhatsApp Plus,” offering users enhanced customisation tools while keeping its core messaging services free and unchanged.

WhatsApp Experiments with Paid ‘Plus’ Tier

Popular messaging platform WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new premium subscription service named WhatsApp Plus, according to insights shared by WABetaInfo. The feature is currently available to a limited group of Android beta users, indicating that the company is still in the experimental phase before a broader rollout.

The subscription is designed as an optional upgrade, allowing users to unlock additional features focused on personalisation, convenience, and visual enhancements. Importantly, WhatsApp has ensured that its core functionalities — including messaging, voice and video calls, and end-to-end encryption — will remain completely free for all users.

Focus on Personalisation and User Control

Unlike many subscription models that restrict basic features, WhatsApp Plus appears to prioritize enhancing the user experience rather than limiting access. The plan introduces a range of customisation options, enabling users to tailor the app’s interface, notifications, and overall look according to their preferences.

This approach aligns with the broader industry trend where platforms offer premium tiers for cosmetic upgrades and advanced usability features, while maintaining accessibility for their global user base.

Premium Stickers with Animated Effects

One of the standout additions in WhatsApp Plus is access to exclusive sticker packs. Subscribers can browse and download premium stickers directly from the sticker store, giving them more expressive options during conversations.

Some of these stickers come with animated overlay effects that extend beyond the chat window and appear across the screen. Interestingly, recipients can view these enhanced animations even if they are not subscribed to the premium plan, potentially increasing the appeal and visibility of these features.

Custom Themes for a Fresh Look

The subscription introduces a wide range of custom themes, allowing users to move beyond WhatsApp’s iconic green interface. Subscribers can choose from 18 different colour options, transforming the overall appearance of the app.

Available themes include shades like:

• Vibrant Blue
• Royal Purple
• Deep Navy
• Bright Lavender
• Charcoal Grey
• Coral Orange
• Forest Green
• Teal
• Burgundy
• Earl Brown

Once selected, the chosen theme is applied across the entire interface, offering a more immersive and personalised visual experience.

Custom App Icons for Unique Identity

WhatsApp Plus also enables users to customise the app icon, a feature that appeals to those who enjoy personalising their smartphone interface.

Subscribers can choose from 14 different icon styles, including:

• Glitter and glowing designs
• Cosmic-inspired visuals
• Minimalist circular icons
• Pastel colour variations
• Classic black-and-white outlines

This feature allows users to align the app’s appearance with their device’s overall aesthetic.

Expanded Chat Pinning Limit

A practical addition in the premium plan is the ability to pin up to 20 chats at the top of the chat list. Currently, standard users are limited to pinning only three conversations.

This upgrade is particularly beneficial for users who manage a large number of chats, such as professionals or business users. By expanding the pinning limit, WhatsApp Plus makes it easier to:

• Keep important conversations visible
• Quickly access frequently used chats
• Improve overall chat organisation

Exclusive Ringtones for Calls

The subscription also includes 10 premium ringtones, offering users more options to personalise their call notifications. These exclusive tones provide variety and help users distinguish WhatsApp calls from regular phone calls or other app notifications.

Enhanced Chat List Customisation

Another notable feature is bulk customisation for chats. Subscribers can apply themes, notification tones, and other settings across multiple chats simultaneously.

WhatsApp automatically extends these preferences to new chats, ensuring consistency without requiring manual adjustments. This feature simplifies the process of managing chat settings, especially for users who interact with numerous contacts.

Pricing and Availability Details

According to reports, WhatsApp Plus is expected to be priced at approximately €2.49 per month in Europe, though pricing may vary depending on the region.

The subscription follows a monthly billing model with automatic renewal unless cancelled by the user. Additionally, some users may receive a free trial period, allowing them to explore the premium features before committing.

Currently, the feature is limited to Android beta users, suggesting that WhatsApp is gathering feedback and refining the offering before a wider release. Support for iOS devices and a global rollout are expected in future updates.

Core Features Remain Free and Unchanged

A key aspect of WhatsApp Plus is that it does not interfere with the platform’s core experience. Essential features such as:

• Messaging
• Voice and video calls
• End-to-end encryption
• Privacy protections

will remain accessible to all users at no cost.

This ensures that WhatsApp continues to uphold its commitment to free and secure communication, while offering optional upgrades for users seeking enhanced functionality.

Strategic Move in a Competitive Market

The introduction of a premium tier reflects WhatsApp’s evolving strategy to diversify its revenue streams without relying heavily on advertisements.

As competition intensifies among messaging platforms, offering a subscription-based model allows WhatsApp to:

• Generate additional revenue
• Enhance user engagement
• Cater to power users seeking advanced features

At the same time, the optional nature of the plan ensures that the platform remains inclusive and accessible to its vast global audience.

Outlook: Gradual Rollout Expected

While WhatsApp Plus is still in its testing phase, the early features indicate a strong focus on customisation, usability, and user-centric design. If the beta testing proves successful, the company is likely to expand availability across regions and platforms.

The move could mark a significant shift in how messaging apps balance free services with premium enhancements, setting a precedent for future innovations in the space.