Meta is currently testing a premium version of its messaging app, WhatsApp Plus, which introduces several paywalled features focused primarily on cosmetic upgrades. The initiative was first spotted by WABetaInfo, a platform that tracks WhatsApp beta updates.
According to Meta’s Help Center page, WhatsApp Plus subscribers will gain access to exclusive premium stickers with special effects, as well as the ability to personalize app themes and icons. These enhancements are designed to elevate the user experience with visually appealing and customizable elements.
WhatsApp Plus Features
- Premium Stickers: Exclusive stickers with special effects.
- Custom Themes and Icons: Personalize the app’s appearance.
- Pinned Chats: Up to 20 chats can be pinned for quick access.
- Premium Ringtones: Set unique ringtones for specific contacts.
- Custom Alerts and Themes: Further personalize chat lists with alerts, ringtones, and themes.
While WhatsApp Plus introduces these premium features, Meta has confirmed that basic functions such as sending messages, making voice calls, and end-to-end encryption will remain free for all users.
Pricing and Availability
As of now, Meta has not announced exact pricing for WhatsApp Plus. However, WABetaInfo reports that subscription costs vary by region, ranging from 229 Pakistani Rupees (less than $1) to €2.49 (around $3). Meta is also exploring additional features for the premium plan, though no further details have been shared.
This isn’t Meta’s first foray into premium subscriptions. The company is also testing Instagram Plus, which offers features like extended Stories (longer than 24 hours) and “super hearts.” While pricing for Instagram Plus has not been announced, WABetaInfo suggests that Meta may offer one-month trials for WhatsApp Plus subscribers interested in testing the premium experience.
Related articles
Musk vs. Altman Trial: Closing Arguments Reveal Legal Missteps and Evidence Mount
Today was closing arguments in the Musk v. Altman trial, and I almost feel bad writing about the unbelievable demolition derby I just witnessed. Steve...
Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Now Support Gesture-Based Messaging in WhatsApp, Messenger, and More
Meta is rolling out new features to its Meta Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, including bringing the ability to write messages just with hand gestures t...
Fired IT Workers Accidentally Record Own Database Sabotage via Active Teams Call
Perhaps you remember Muneeb and Sohaib Akhter, the 34-year-old twin brothers we profiled earlier this week. Although they had the tech chops to commit...
Meta Expands Smart Glasses Capabilities with Third-Party Apps and Games
The $800 smart glasses could soon be a lot more useful.
Xbox Elite 3 Controller Leaked: New Images Reveal Design and Features Ahead of Launch
Hours after a smaller Xbox Cloud Gaming controller appeared online, Brazil's Anatel regulator has also accidentally published images of what appears t...
OpenAI Launches Mobile Access to Codex for Coding Projects On-the-Go
The integration allows you to keep tabs on your coding projects on the go.
OpenAI Integrates Codex into ChatGPT Mobile App, Expanding AI Coding Capabilities
OpenAI is going to let users access Codex, its desktop AI tool that can write code and use apps on your computer, from the ChatGPT app on your phone....
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Hit Record-Low Prices During Meta’s Summer Sale
You can save over $50 on the latest pair of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which offer improved video quality and battery life. | Photo: Photo by Colt Bradley...