WhatsApp has begun testing a new paid subscription called WhatsApp Plus.
The test started on April 20, 2026, and is reaching only a small group of Android beta users for now.
The core app stays completely free with messaging calls video calls and end-to-end encryption unchanged for everyone. The paid version adds cosmetic upgrades that make the experience feel more personal and easier to manage.
These include extra pinned chats custom chat lists new themes and colors plus special stickers and notification options. None of these extras change how people actually send messages or connect with others. They simply let users customise the look and organisation of their chats.
Meta which owns WhatsApp says this is an optional upgrade designed for people who want more control over their app.
Pricing is still being tested and will change by country with early signs showing it could be as low as about one US dollar a month in some places. A short free trial may also be offered to testers.
This marks a clear shift for the company. WhatsApp once charged a small yearly fee many years ago before dropping it after Facebook bought the app. Now Meta is bringing back subscriptions but only as an extra layer on top of the free service. The same approach is already being tried on Instagram and Facebook.
In places like Nigeria Kenya and South Africa WhatsApp works almost like basic infrastructure for families businesses and daily life. Most users will keep the free version but the test shows Meta wants to earn money directly from people while keeping the main app open to billions.
For now the rollout is small and limited to Android. Wider release and iOS support will come later after Meta gathers feedback. The move fits a bigger plan to turn WhatsApp into a layered product with free basics at the bottom and paid extras at the edges.
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