For years, WhatsApp has been simple: download it, use it, and never pay a cent.
That might be starting to change.
Meta Platforms is quietly testing a new paid subscription for WhatsApp, signalling a possible shift for one of South Africa’s most widely used apps.
A paid WhatsApp version – but with a twist
The new tier, called WhatsApp Plus, has appeared in early Android test versions and is already listed in the app’s official help pages, Tech Central reports.
But before users panic, the core app isn’t going anywhere. Messaging, voice calls, video calls and end-to-end encryption will all remain free, just as they are now.
Instead, the subscription adds optional extras for people who want more control over how the app looks and feels.
Early versions of WhatsApp Plus focus more on personalisation than functionality. Subscribers can expect:
- Custom app themes and icons
- Special animated stickers
- More pinned chats (up to 20)
- Custom ringtones for specific contacts
- Extra control over chat layout and notifications
In short, it’s less about changing how WhatsApp works and more about how it looks.
How much will it cost?
In testing, the subscription is priced at around $2.99 a month (roughly R49), although this could change depending on the region.
There’s no confirmation yet on whether the feature will launch in South Africa or when.
But Meta has been looking for new ways to make money from its apps, and subscriptions are becoming a bigger part of that strategy across platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Will people actually pay?
That’s the big question. Right now, WhatsApp Plus doesn’t unlock major new features, offer extra security or an ad-free upgrade, or make changes to messaging itself.
It’s closer to a “nice-to-have” upgrade than a must-have.
For users in South Africa, where data costs and affordability still matter, paying a monthly fee for themes and stickers may be a tough sell.
But the rollout is still limited, and Meta is likely testing how users respond before making bigger decisions.
If the idea takes off, it could open the door to more premium features in future. If not, it may remain a niche add-on for power users.
For now, WhatsApp stays free, but this is the clearest sign yet that the platform could be heading in a new direction.
