WhatsApp may introduce paid version for users, premium stickers and advanced chat tools under testing
WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used messaging platforms, may soon roll out a paid subscription option for regular users. According to recent reports, the company is testing a premium tier that could offer additional features such as exclusive stickers, enhanced chat customisation, and expanded control over conversations, while continuing to keep the core app free for all users.
Context: WhatsApp’s shift towards monetisation
Launched in 2009, WhatsApp initially followed a paid-access model, charging users a small annual fee. The platform later dropped this approach in 2016 after being acquired by Meta, making the app completely free for personal use. This move played a major role in WhatsApp’s global expansion, helping it cross billions of active users worldwide.
Since then, WhatsApp has largely avoided charging individual users, instead focusing on business-oriented revenue streams. Features such as WhatsApp Business subscriptions, click-to-WhatsApp ads, and API-based messaging for enterprises have become key sources of income. The possibility of a paid tier for regular users now signals a gradual shift towards diversifying revenue without disrupting the free user experience.
WhatsApp testing a premium plan
According to a report by WaBetaInfo, WhatsApp is currently testing a paid subscription plan within the standard app. The testing is reportedly limited to beta versions and select users, suggesting the feature is still in an experimental phase.
Early details indicate that the premium plan will focus on personalisation and convenience rather than core communication features. Users opting for the paid tier may gain access to additional sticker packs, exclusive themes, alternative app icons, and customised notification or chat alert sounds. These features are designed to enhance the visual and functional experience without affecting essential messaging capabilities.
More control over chats and pinned conversations
One of the most talked-about features in the reported premium plan is improved chat management. At present, WhatsApp allows users to pin up to three chats at the top of their chat list. Reports suggest that subscribers may be able to pin more conversations, making it easier to keep important chats readily accessible.
This feature has reportedly appeared in certain beta builds and is available only to a limited number of users through a waitlist system. If rolled out widely, it could appeal to users who rely heavily on WhatsApp for both personal and professional communication.
Optional subscription with free core features
People familiar with the development say WhatsApp is likely to expand the list of premium features gradually, depending on user feedback and adoption rates. Crucially, the subscription is expected to remain optional.
Users who choose not to pay would continue to enjoy all existing features without restrictions. Text messaging, voice and video calls, media sharing, group chats, encryption, and privacy settings would remain fully accessible on the free version. This approach mirrors WhatsApp’s broader strategy of avoiding paywalls around essential services.
Lessons from WhatsApp Business
WhatsApp already operates a successful paid model through its business-focused application. WhatsApp Business offers a free tier that allows companies to link up to five devices to a single account. Paid subscriptions increase this limit to ten devices and unlock additional tools.
These tools include custom product catalog pages, automated responses, and chat assignment features that help teams manage customer conversations more efficiently. The reported premium plan for regular users appears to borrow from this model by offering added convenience rather than limiting access to basic functions.
No official confirmation yet
As of now, WhatsApp has not announced an official launch date or pricing structure for the premium plan. The company has also not confirmed the final list of features that may be included in the subscription.
Industry observers note that extended testing usually indicates serious consideration rather than a short-term experiment. However, WhatsApp has previously tested features that were later modified or discontinued based on user response. Any final rollout is likely to be gradual and region-specific.
Analysis: Why a paid tier makes sense now
With billions of users globally, WhatsApp faces increasing pressure to generate sustainable revenue while maintaining trust. Introducing optional premium features allows the platform to monetise power users without alienating its massive free user base.
Customisation-focused subscriptions have already proven successful on other platforms, where users are willing to pay for enhanced personalisation and convenience. By keeping core messaging free and encrypted, WhatsApp can preserve its reputation while exploring new income streams.
The possibility of a paid WhatsApp subscription marks an important moment in the app’s evolution. While the free version is expected to remain unchanged, a premium tier could offer users more flexibility, personalisation, and control over their chats. With testing already underway, an official announcement may not be far off, although pricing and timelines remain unclear.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
WhatsApp’s reported move towards a paid subscription for regular users reflects a careful balance between monetisation and user trust. By keeping essential features free and offering optional upgrades, the platform appears to be testing how much value users place on personalisation and convenience. If executed thoughtfully, the premium plan could strengthen WhatsApp’s ecosystem without disrupting its core promise of simple, reliable communication.