WhatsApp is entering the premium segment with a new subscription plan called WhatsApp Plus, designed for users who want more control and personalization. Introduced by Meta, the plan mainly focuses on adding custom features without changing the basic working of the app.
As per Times Now report the company has clearly stated that WhatsApp’s main services will remain free. Users can continue sending messages, making voice and video calls, and using end-to-end encryption without any cost. WhatsApp Plus is simply an optional upgrade for those who want extra features.
Right now, the subscription is being tested with a small number of Android users and will be rolled out step by step. This shows Meta’s plan to introduce paid features while still keeping the app free and accessible for everyone.
What is WhatsApp Plus?
WhatsApp Plus is a monthly subscription that gives users some extra features to make the app more fun and personalized. It doesn’t change how you send messages or make calls, but it lets you customise how the app looks and works according to your style.
According to a Times Now report, the app said in a blog post that "WhatsApp Plus is an optional subscription that gives you access to additional premium features on WhatsApp. The WhatsApp you know and rely on remains free -- simple, reliable, private messaging and calling. This subscription does not change your core experience, and we are committed to ensuring that WhatsApp continues to get better for everyone.”
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What features do you get?
Subscribers can use special stickers with cool effects, change the app’s themes and icons, and pin up to 20 chats at the top. They can also set different ringtones for contacts and customise chat alerts and layouts, making the app feel more personal and fun to use.
Who can use it?
The feature is currently available only to select users in limited regions and is restricted to WhatsApp Messenger. It is not available on WhatsApp Business. Users must have an active account and agree to Meta’s subscription and usage policies.
Details about eligibility and subscription
To subscribe to WhatsApp Plus, users need to follow some basic requirements. You must have a phone number from a country where the feature is available and an active WhatsApp account. You also need to agree to Meta’s subscription terms and follow WhatsApp’s rules and guidelines.
WhatsApp Plus works on a monthly subscription. It will automatically renew every month unless you cancel it. The payment is charged on the same date each month. Sometimes, there may be an offer when you first subscribe. You can manage your subscription from the same app and device where you bought it.
"Only one WhatsApp Plus subscription can be purchased per WhatsApp account," the instant messaging apps said.
It is also important to use only the official version of WhatsApp downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. If you use unofficial apps, your account may get temporarily or permanently banned.
How to subscribe WhatsApp Plus
In order to subscribe to WhatsApp Plus, go to Settings and tap on Subscriptions. Then select WhatsApp Plus (if you don’t see it, it may not be available for you yet) and tap Continue. After that, check the payment details and confirm your purchase through the Google Play Store. Once the payment is done, you will get a notification confirming that your subscription is active.
What about pricing?
The price is not final yet, but early testing shows it may cost around 2.49 per month in Europe. In other countries, the price will change based on local markets. This means that in India, it could be cheaper, maybe under Rs 250 per month. However, the official price for India has not been confirmed yet.
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With WhatsApp Plus, Meta is trying to offer its users new additional and premium features The main features like messaging and calling will stay free, while extra features will be available for those who want to pay.
As the feature rolls out further, more updates and additions may be included in the plan. For now, WhatsApp Plus is just an optional upgrade that gives users more control, without changing the basic experience people already use and like.
