For years, people have turned to unofficial WhatsApp mods just to change how the app looks. Custom themes, different icons, more pinned chats. None of it was possible in the real app. That might be about to change. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is developing a paid subscription tier called WhatsApp Plus, and it’s shaping up to be exactly what those power users have been waiting for.
The plan is still under development for both Android and iOS, with no launch date or price confirmed yet. But based on what’s been spotted in recent beta builds, the feature set is starting to come into focus. WhatsApp Plus subscribers would get access to 14 new app icons, custom accent colors, and themes to change how the whole interface looks. The pinned chats limit would jump from 3 all the way to 20. On top of that, subscribers would get exclusive ringtones and sticker packs not available to free users. WABetaInfo also notes that more features could roll out over time.
The most important thing to know: none of this affects the free version. Messaging, calls, media sharing, and all of WhatsApp’s privacy tools stay free for everyone. WhatsApp Plus is purely optional.
What’s behind the subscription push
WhatsApp isn’t doing this in a vacuum. Back in January, Meta confirmed to TechCrunch that it plans to test premium subscriptions across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. The company said the goal is unlocking more productivity and creativity features while keeping core experiences free. We’ve already seen Meta move in this direction. Facebook and Instagram launched ad-free subscriptions in the UK last year, and Meta Verified has been available for businesses on WhatsApp at $15 per month for a while now.
WhatsApp Plus looks more aimed at regular consumers than businesses. It’s a closer comparison to Telegram Premium, which uses a similar model. It’s free for everyone, but extra customization and perks for subscribers. Some beta testers are already seeing a waitlist banner inside WhatsApp’s settings, so the rollout is clearly moving forward. Pricing is still unknown, but with no launch date in sight, there’s time to find out.
