Since its launch in 2009, WhatsApp has been a free-to-use platform. It gained a lot of features over the years, and the user base multiplied. Currently, for most users, it’s the go-to choice for connecting with friends and family. That said, it looks like things may change in the near future, as this Meta-owned platform may reportedly introduce a new “WhatsApp Plus” optional paid subscription plan.
WhatsApp Plus paid subscription will reportedly be optional
This isn’t entirely a surprise, as Meta announced in January its plans to test premium tiers for its platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook. The WhatsApp Plus subscription plan will offer additional features to paying customers. These include app customization and additional chat controls, according to a report from WABetaInfo. Currently, the WhatsApp Plus subscription plan is reportedly in development for both iOS and Android and isn’t publicly available yet.
For customers who choose not to opt into the subscription service, the app’s core functions, including messaging, voice and video calls, media sharing, and all the privacy options that you care about, will continue to remain free. The subscription will apparently focus mainly on convenience rather than completely changing the messaging experience.
Customization and new chat features
It’s reported that the WhatsApp Plus subscription would expand chat pinning. Currently, you can pin up to three chats in the app. But with the subscription, it may raise the limit to 20. This way, users can keep more chats at the top of the chat list.
In addition to this, the paid plan may also bring multiple customization options for subscribers. These include the option to choose from 14 different app icons and adjust the accent colors from 19 color options. Changing the accent color may also affect other areas of the interface, like tabs, filters, and action buttons.
Other features that could be a part of the subscription plan include exclusive stickers only for subscribers, custom ringtones specially for WhatsApp calls, and more interactive message reactions and conversation effects. The report adds that the chat application may add more features over time based on user feedback.
No pricing yet
As said, WhatsApp Plus hasn’t been launched yet. It’s currently in development, so we don’t know how much it’ll cost. If the development becomes successful, the feature might show up in future updates. WhatsApp is reportedly rolling out a waitlist option. This will notify users once the premium plan becomes available. This feature was spotted in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.9.6.
Users may see a “join waitlist” banner within the settings page or sticker keyboard. However, signing up for the waitlist does not automatically enroll users in the paid service when it becomes available. The waitlist feature is currently available only to a select number of beta testers in certain regions. The report notes that WhatsApp will expand this availability to more users in the coming weeks.
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