WhatsApp may be preparing to introduce a paid option for regular users, according to recent reports tracking updates in the app’s test versions. The move would mark a shift for the platform, which has remained free for personal use since 2016, after briefly charging users in its early years.
WhatsApp was launched in 2009 with a small annual fee model before dropping charges to expand its reach globally. Since then, the app has relied largely on its business-facing services for revenue. Now, testing activity suggests that the company is exploring a subscription-based plan for individual users who want additional features, while keeping the existing free version unchanged.
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What the paid plan could include
Information shared by WaBetaInfo indicates that WhatsApp is testing a premium plan inside the standard app. The proposed features focus mainly on customisation and convenience rather than core communication tools. These include access to additional sticker packs, new themes, alternative app icons, and custom notification sounds for specific chats.
Another feature under testing involves pinned chats. Currently, users can pin up to three conversations at the top of their chat list. The premium version is expected to raise this limit, allowing users to keep more conversations easily visible. This option has appeared in limited beta builds and is currently available only to a small group of testers.
Free version to continue as it is
People familiar with the development say the subscription would be optional. Users who choose not to pay would continue to use WhatsApp as they do now. Messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, media sharing, and privacy features are not expected to be affected.
The company is also said to be watching how testers respond before deciding whether to add more paid features. For now, the emphasis appears to be on personalisation rather than restricting existing functions.
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Clues from WhatsApp Business
WhatsApp already runs a paid model through WhatsApp Business, which offers advanced tools for companies. Business subscribers can link more devices and access features such as chat assignment and product pages, while the basic version remains free. The proposed paid plan for regular users appears to follow a lighter version of this approach, aimed at individuals rather than businesses.
At present, WhatsApp has not confirmed whether the paid version will be launched, nor has it announced pricing or a release date. The feature remains in testing, and the final decision will depend on user response.
