WhatsApp is reportedly testing a premium subscription for Android beta users, indicating a potential shift toward monetization with paid features that could reshape the messaging app’s user experience. The app is expected to include exclusive ringtones and improved chat management tools. Users will be able to apply settings such as themes and notification tones to multiple chats at once.
WhatsApp appears to be testing a new subscription-based offering that could add more features and personalization options to its popular messaging platform. The feature is currently visible in select Android beta versions and is being introduced as an optional tier.
Messaging, voice calls, and essential features will remain free and accessible to all users. Privacy protections are also unchanged, as end-to-end encryption is still applied to conversations, calls, and status updates.
The subscription will reportedly have a monthly billing cycle with automatic renewal. However, the price has not been announced yet and varies by region. So far, the feature is only available to a select number of Android beta users and it may roll out to the public in the coming weeks after additional testing and feedback.
According to reports, the new plan, known as WhatsApp Plus, is said to improve the user experience by adding customization tools and expanded controls. Importantly, services like text messaging, voice and video calls and end-to-end encryption will remain free and unaffected. This means that users who do not want WhatsApp Plus can continue using the Meta-owned platform without any issues.
The WaBetaInfo report also stated that the premium tier will reportedly focus on visual and functional improvements. Subscribers may gain access to exclusive sticker packs, some of which feature animated overlays that appear across the chat screen. The users will be able to customize the app’s interface with a variety of new theme colors.
Users will experience a cleaner, more modern interface that makes conversations look smoother. The redesigned WhatsApp message bubbles feature softer, rounded edges, replacing the older, more angular appearance. Media files, such as photos and videos, will also be displayed differently. It will appear as standalone bubbles rather than being enclosed in traditional message frames.
Users may receive status updates from phone numbers they recently interacted with, even if those contacts are not saved in their contact list. Its visibility will reportedly be limited.
The messaging platform is expected to introduce a premium subscription. The feature is currently under testing, and some users can already sign up to be notified when the service becomes available.
While users can change call ringtones, the paid version may include a wider selection of exclusive sounds. These ringtones are intended specifically for calls within the app. It will not apply to message notifications.
Currently, users can only pin three chats at the top of their inbox. Under the new plan, the limit could increase to 20. More pins will help keep important chats at the top, without the need to search through messages.
Many online services have shifted toward subscription-based models to generate revenue. If launched, WhatsApp Plus could provide Meta with a new revenue stream while keeping the main service free for users.
WhatsApp has not released any official information about how much the subscription might cost or when it will launch.