Outlook Business Desk
WhatsApp is reportedly working on an optional paid subscription that may offer exclusive features focused on customisation and convenience, while keeping core messaging services unchanged for users.
According to WABetaInfo, references to the paid plan appeared in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.26.4.8, suggesting early testing before any public rollout.
Meta is reportedly planning paid subscription options for WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook, offering exclusive tools and controls while keeping core app features free.
WhatsApp earlier told TechCrunch that its subscription plans will focus on productivity, creativity and artificial intelligence-driven tools, without limiting core messaging or communication services.
Premium features could include exclusive sticker packs, new app themes and dedicated chat ringtones, giving subscribers greater control over how WhatsApp looks and sounds compared with free options.
Subscribers may also get access to multiple new app icons, giving users greater control over how WhatsApp appears on their phone’s home screen.
The paid plan could allow users to pin more than three chats, improving access to important conversations compared with the current limit set for free users.
The company has reportedly confirmed that subscriptions will be optional, and core privacy features such as private messaging, calls and end-to-end encryption will stay free for all users.