WhatsApp will soon launch paid features, here’s a first look at what could be coming
WhatsApp is set to bring out a new subscription plan that will include paid features like more customization and even more AI smarts on the messaging platform. A new report reveals what the service could look like.
Meta is working to bring paid features to its core products, including WhatsApp and Instagram. Now, a new report reveals how the upcoming “subscriptions” service could work inside WhatsApp. As part of these paid services, Meta may provide additional features, including more seamless access to AI. However, the report talks less about AI integration and more about utility-based enhancements like stickers and themes that can help users better personalize their messaging experience.
According to WABetaInfo, the first signs of Meta’s upcoming paid subscription service can be seen on one of the beta versions of WhatsApp for Android, suggesting active development and the possibility of an imminent launch. These features are said to be part of the WhatsApp beta version for Android 2.26.4.8. The screenshots shared in the report mention that users of the said WhatsApp beta will have to join a waiting list before they can start using the features. Users who sign up can be notified when a plan becomes available. After getting the green signal from WhatsApp or when it is ready to implement the features, users will get additional functionality compared to the features already available.
What can the new WhatsApp subscription offer
In the new subscription plan, WhatsApp may allow premium stickers, app themes and pinning of more than three chats. In this plan, you can set dedicated chat ringtones that will provide a more personalized messaging experience.
Customization of WhatsApp’s app icons is also expected; Using this feature, users will be able to choose their favorite icon from the multiple options provided by WhatsApp.
Since these features are still under development, WhatsApp may make changes to some of these features before the official release, or add some more features after taking feedback from its users after its release.
As of now, the price of this subscription plan is unknown, and the plan may vary from country to country.
Recently Meta told TechCrunch that it is planning to launch a new subscription plan for all three of its popular social media platforms – Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. However, the report also says that the core experience of all these apps will remain free. This subscription is said to unlock greater “productivity and creativity”.
As a part of this new membership, Meta may also include its recently acquired AI agent Manus. Meta valued the company at $2 billion in December.
