Meta is slowly bringing its new WhatsApp Plus subscription to iPhone users, offering paid customization features while keeping the app’s core messaging experience free for everyone.
Quick Summary
- WhatsApp Plus is now rolling out to a limited number of iPhone users after Android beta testing.
- The subscription adds custom themes, app icons, premium stickers, and more personalization tools.
- Core WhatsApp features like messaging, calls, and encryption remain completely free.
- Pricing starts at €2.49 per month in Europe, with wider global rollout expected soon.
What Happened?
Meta has officially started rolling out WhatsApp Plus to iPhone users through the latest version of WhatsApp available on the App Store. The feature was first spotted during Android beta testing last month and is now appearing for a limited group of iOS users in select regions.
According to reports from WABetaInfo, the subscription is focused entirely on personalization and visual customization rather than locking any major messaging features behind a paywall.
WhatsApp Plus is rolling out premium features to iOS users!
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) May 8, 2026
WhatsApp Plus is a subscription plan now available to a limited number of iOS users.https://t.co/UV23sPwftM pic.twitter.com/rv2qOtuQRJ
WhatsApp Plus Adds a New Layer of Customization
The new subscription introduces several cosmetic upgrades for users who want a more personalized WhatsApp experience. Subscribers get access to 18 different accent color themes that replace WhatsApp’s traditional green design throughout the app interface.
Users can also choose from 14 alternate app icons, including minimal and artistic styles. On top of that, Meta is adding premium sticker packs that include animated fullscreen overlay effects. Even users without the subscription will still be able to see those sticker animations when they receive them in chats.
The subscription also includes:
- 10 exclusive ringtones.
- Ability to pin up to 20 chats instead of the standard 3.
- Shared themes and notification settings across chat lists.
- Bulk customization tools for work groups or personal chat categories.
One of the more practical additions is the upgraded list management system. Subscribers can apply a single chat theme, alert tone, or ringtone to an entire group of conversations at once. For example, users could create a separate list for work contacts and assign a dedicated theme and notification sound for those chats.
Free WhatsApp Features Are Staying the Same
Meta is making it clear that WhatsApp Plus does not replace the free version of WhatsApp. Standard messaging, voice calls, video calls, status updates, media sharing, and end-to-end encryption remain available to all users without any charge.
The company appears to be positioning WhatsApp Plus as an optional add on for power users rather than a required subscription. The approach is similar to what apps like Telegram have done with premium tiers that focus on personalization and convenience instead of restricting essential features.
WhatsApp Plus is also currently limited to the standard WhatsApp Messenger app. Users with WhatsApp Business accounts will not see the subscription option.
Pricing and Availability
At the moment, the rollout remains limited. Only some iPhone users running the latest version of WhatsApp can access the feature. Meta is expected to expand availability gradually over the next few weeks.
Pricing varies by region. Reports suggest the subscription costs €2.49 per month in Europe, while users in Mexico reportedly see pricing around $29 annually. Some users may also receive free trial offers lasting one week or one month depending on their location.
Meta has not officially confirmed pricing for the United States yet.
The launch of WhatsApp Plus also aligns with Meta’s broader push toward paid subscription products across its ecosystem. Earlier this year, the company confirmed plans for premium subscription offerings tied to Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
SQ Magazine Takeaway
I think Meta is taking a smart approach here. Instead of charging users for core messaging features, the company is testing whether people are willing to pay for customization and convenience. Most users probably will not rush to subscribe, but heavy WhatsApp users who spend hours inside the app every day may actually enjoy these extras.
The important part is that Meta has not touched the free experience. That matters because WhatsApp became popular for being simple, fast, and free. If Meta keeps subscriptions optional and cosmetic focused, users will likely accept it much more easily.
