WhatsApp tests paid tier

WhatsApp is testing a paid “Plus” tier that keeps messaging free and charges for optional extras like themes, stickers, and more pinned chats. (cnet.com) CNET reported on April 23 that the test is not widely available yet and includes perks such as pinning up to 20 chats instead of the standard limit. TechCrunch reported on April 20 that the package also includes customized icons, themes, and ringtones. (cnet.com) (techcrunch.com) WABetaInfo, which tracks unreleased WhatsApp features, said the subscription has appeared for a limited number of beta users and described it as optional. Its reports said current core features would remain free while Meta collects feedback on the add-ons. (wabetainfo.com 1) (wabetainfo.com 2) The test extends a shift already underway at Meta, which confirmed in February that it was planning premium subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp with “special features and more customization tools.” That puts WhatsApp closer to the playbook used by apps such as Snapchat+, where subscriptions sell convenience and status features without putting basic messaging behind a paywall. (cnet.com) (techcrunch.com) That approach also fits WhatsApp’s history. The app built its audience on free consumer messaging, while Meta has spent the past few years adding paid tools around businesses, including premium features for the WhatsApp Business app and click-to-chat tools sold as optional extras. (blog.whatsapp.com) (cnet.com) So far, the reported consumer perks are mostly cosmetic or organizational rather than functional. WABetaInfo said the list includes exclusive stickers, app themes, extra chat ringtones, alternate app icons, and expanded chat pinning, with some details still subject to change before any broader launch. (wabetainfo.com 1) (wabetainfo.com 2) One early report from The Next Web said the test price showing for some users was 2.49 euros a month, but neither WhatsApp nor Meta has publicly announced a broad consumer rollout price. The limited rollout suggests Meta is still testing what users will pay for personalization inside an app with more than two billion people using it globally. (thenextweb.com) (techcrunch.com) If the experiment sticks, WhatsApp would be selling a cleaner kind of upgrade than ads in private chats: pay for flair, keep the inbox free. For now, the company appears to be measuring whether enough users want that trade. (cnet.com) (techcrunch.com)