Meta Begins Testing WhatsApp Plus Premium Subscription

Meta is expanding its subscription strategy, and WhatsApp is next in line. After testing Instagram Plus, the company has begun rolling out a premium tier for its messaging platform.

According to TechCrunch, Meta is currently testing a new subscription called WhatsApp Plus. This move aligns with a broader push toward paid features across its ecosystem, focusing on personalization and added functionality.

Premium features focused on customization and messaging

The WhatsApp Plus tier introduces several upgrades aimed at power users. Customization plays a central role, allowing users to change app themes, icons, and even set custom ringtones.

Messaging features also receive a boost, with support for premium stickers and the ability to pin up to 20 chats, significantly more than the standard limit.

Meta is also experimenting with additional tools, including access to an “Update” or “Upgrade List” that helps users track contact activity more closely. These features suggest a shift toward deeper user control and potentially more AI-driven interactions over time.

Limited rollout with expected subscription pricing

The rollout remains limited for now, with only a small group of users gaining access during testing. Pricing has not been officially confirmed, but early estimates suggest a monthly fee of around €2.49 in Europe.

Some users may also receive a one-month free trial as part of the onboarding experience. Meta’s approach reflects a broader industry trend toward subscription-based models, especially for apps with large user bases.

By introducing optional premium tiers, the company aims to diversify revenue streams while keeping core messaging features free.

In other news, Meta is also partnering with Broadcom to develop custom AI chips, signaling continued investment in AI infrastructure alongside its monetization efforts.

Via Neowin