WhatsApp Plus – a premium subscription service for the popular messaging app – is rolling out for some iPhone users. And before you grab the pitchforks, don’t worry – core features aren’t being locked away behind a paywall. For now, at least.
The optional WhatsApp Plus subscription adds custom themes, alternate app icons, animated premium stickers, and a much larger pinned chat limit for eligible users running the latest iOS version of WhatsApp.
According to WABetaInfo, the subscription is currently only available to a limited number of iOS users, with broader availability expected over the coming weeks.
The biggest addition, if it wasn’t already obvious, is customisation. Subscribers can replace WhatsApp’s signature green interface with one of 18 alternative accent colours, including brighter shades like yellow and coral orange alongside darker greys, greens, and blues. There are also 14 alternate app icons to choose from, ranging from minimalist monochrome designs to considerably flashier glitter-style options – one for MySpace fans.
WhatsApp Plus also raises the pinned chat limit from three conversations to 20, which could be useful if your WhatsApp has become an endless mix of work chats, family groups, unread messages, and increasingly chaotic group conversations. Subscribers also gain access to exclusive animated sticker packs and 10 additional ringtones with names like Flux, Meadow, Bubble, and Carnival.
There are a few extra organisational perks too. WhatsApp Plus allows users to apply themes, notification sounds, and ringtones across entire chat lists at once, which should make it easier to separate work, family, and personal conversations.
Importantly, WhatsApp’s core functionality remains unchanged for everyone else. Messaging, voice calls, video calls, status updates, and end-to-end encryption all stay completely free, with WhatsApp Plus acting more like an optional cosmetic add-on.
Pricing appears to vary depending on the region. WABetaInfo spotted pricing at €2.49 per month in Europe, while some users may also receive one-week or one-month free trials. The subscription currently appears limited to standard WhatsApp accounts, meaning WhatsApp Business users won’t see the option for now.
We’ll be keeping an eye out for the general rollout. Enjoy your glittery new themes.
Read the full article here
