Meta has officially commenced testing for WhatsApp Plus, a subscription-based tier of its popular messaging platform. Initially appearing in the Android beta version, this new service introduces a range of aesthetic and organizational features for a monthly fee, mirroring the premium model previously adopted by competitors like Telegram.

Customization and Visual Features

The core appeal of the subscription lies in its expanded personalization options. Users can move beyond the traditional green interface, choosing from 18 predefined color themes that alter the entire application UI. Additionally, the service offers 14 unique app icon designs, allowing users to customize the shortcut on their smartphone home screen with various textures and styles. To further distinguish the experience, the plan includes exclusive stickers featuring full-screen animations.

Organizational Enhancements

Beyond visual tweaks, WhatsApp Plus addresses long-standing user requests regarding chat management. Subscribed users can now pin up to 20 conversations to the top of their chat list, a significant increase from the current free limit of three.

The update also introduces bulk configuration tools. Users can apply visual themes and specific notification tones to entire lists of contacts simultaneously, rather than adjusting them individually. Furthermore, ten exclusive ringtones have been added specifically for voice and video calls within the app.

Availability and Pricing

Currently, the feature is available to a limited group of beta testers on Android. While a public rollout date has not been confirmed, there is a waitlist for interested users. Regarding costs, European testing indicates a price point of €2 per month (~$2.14), with billing handled through the Google Play Store.

Meta has emphasized that the fundamental messaging features currently used by billions will remain free. However, the introduction of WhatsApp Plus suggests a strategic shift toward monetizing non-essential cosmetic and productivity features. There is currently no official timeline for when these testing phases will expand to the iOS ecosystem.