Meta Tests WhatsApp Plus Premium Subscription

Meta is testing a premium subscription service called WhatsApp Plus for its popular messaging app, offering users cosmetic and organizational enhancements in a limited rollout to gather feedback.

The optional tier, spotted in beta versions of WhatsApp, includes access to exclusive sticker packs with special animation effects that overlay the chat screen for recipients, even non-subscribers. Users can also personalize the app with new themes from a selection of 18 colors, choose from 14 alternative icons, and pin up to 20 chats for quick access, compared to the standard limit of three. Additional perks encompass custom ringtones for specific contacts and upgrades to chat lists, such as applying themes, alerts, and notification tones in bulk. A feature referred to as an "UpdateUpgrade List" allows subscribers to manage contact enhancements. Core functions like sending messages, making voice or video calls, and end-to-end encryption remain free for all users.

Meta confirmed the test in a statement to TechCrunch, describing WhatsApp Plus as "designed for users who want more ways to organize and personalize their experience." A company spokesperson added, "We're starting with a small...