Khaberni - Meta is preparing to bring a notable transformation to the WhatsApp user experience by testing a new paid subscription level named "WhatsApp Plus".
This step may mark the beginning of a different phase in the business model of the application, which has relied on the free service since its launch in 2009.
The new subscription will not be mandatory; instead, it will be offered as an additional option providing users with a range of advanced features, while continuing to offer basic functionalities for free to all users, according to information revealed by the WABetaInfo site, which specializes in tracking app updates.
This move is part of a broader strategy by Meta to expand paid subscription models across its various platforms.
In January of last year, the company announced its intention to test new subscription levels across several of its applications, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.
According to the information reported by WABetaInfo, the purpose of the "WhatsApp Plus" subscription is not to change the nature of the application or impose fees on essential services, but rather focuses primarily on enhancing the user experience and providing subscribers with more extensive customization and control tools within the app.
Meanwhile, non-subscribers will still be able to enjoy standard services, such as sending text messages, making voice and video calls, sharing photos and videos, as well as various privacy features, all at no cost.
Leaked information suggests that the paid subscription may include a package of additional features designed to give users a more flexible and customizable experience within the app.
Some of the notable features include: increasing the number of pinned conversations at the top of the chat list from 3 to 20, providing 14 different icons that the user can choose from for the app's appearance, and the ability to change the app interface colors through 19 different color options.
In addition, exclusive stickers for subscribers only, customized ringtones for WhatsApp calls, and new interactive effects for messages and reactions will be made available.
The color changes may also extend to other elements within the interface such as tabs, filters, and action buttons, giving users greater ability to customize the app's appearance according to their personal preferences.
So far, the "WhatsApp Plus" feature is still in the development stage for both Android and iOS systems, and Meta has not yet disclosed the expected subscription fee.
Nevertheless, reports published by WABetaInfo indicate that the app has already begun testing a new feature that allows users to register their prior interest in the forthcoming service, by joining a waiting list through which they will be notified as soon as the subscription is officially launched.
This feature appeared in a beta version of the app on the Android system labeled version 2.26.9.6, where the option to "join the waiting list" can be found within the app-settings or through the sticker panel.
It is expected that testing of this feature will gradually expand to include a larger segment of users in the coming period, before the company makes its final decision regarding the launch of the paid service on a global scale.
