WhatsApp Plus Subscription Starts Rolling Out for iPhone Users With Custom Themes, Premium Stickers and More

WhatsApp, after much speculation, is finally ready to roll out its highly anticipated premium subscription package, WhatsApp Plus. Although WhatsApp had teased several aspects of the soon-to-launch subscription pack before, the exact launch date was uncertain for many months. However, recent reports by WABetaInfo

suggest that the feature has been rolled out to some iPhone users.

The subscription plan doesn't alter WhatsApp's basic functionality and remains free for all the same features for non-subscription users. Free messaging, voice calling, video calling, status sharing, group messaging, and end-to-end encryption remain accessible without any charges. The subscription package is intended for WhatsApp users seeking a customized version of the messaging app.

Currently, the roll-out seems limited only to certain iPhone users, and there is no news regarding when the subscription would become available for Android users across the world or specifically in India.

What is WhatsApp Plus?

WhatsApp Plus subscription plan is simply an extension of the original WhatsApp Messenger with more customization features. The primary emphasis will be on visual personalization and extra features to improve user experience without altering the message exchange functionality.

It implies that users paying for the WhatsApp Plus subscription plan will be entitled to unique themes, animated emojis, different application icons, and improved chat management functions. Such a move appears to mirror other mobile applications where users can pay for cosmetic changes while using the primary product for free.

However, it is essential to clarify that this is entirely different from the existing WhatsApp Plus APK files that users can download freely on several websites. They are unauthorized modifications of the original WhatsApp messenger, which are not approved by the company, and there are privacy and security risks associated with their use.

WhatsApp Plus Features Explained

According to current reports, the WhatsApp Plus subscription includes several premium features aimed at making the app feel more personalised and visually different from the standard green-themed interface.

18 Custom Themes

One of the biggest additions is support for 18 exclusive themes. These themes go beyond WhatsApp’s traditional green colour scheme and allow users to completely change the app’s appearance.

For years, users have asked for deeper customization options in WhatsApp, especially compared to apps like Telegram and Discord. With Plus, WhatsApp finally appears ready to offer more flexibility in how the app looks.

14 Alternate App Icons

Subscribers will reportedly get access to 14 alternate app icons for the home screen. This feature allows users to match the WhatsApp icon with their device theme or personal aesthetic preferences.

Custom app icons have become increasingly popular among iPhone users, especially with Apple’s shortcut-based icon customization trend.

Premium Animated Sticker Packs

WhatsApp Plus subscribers will also receive exclusive animated sticker packs that are unavailable to regular users.

Interestingly, non-paying users can still view these stickers when someone sends them in chats. However, only Plus subscribers will reportedly have the option to directly download and use those premium sticker packs.

Exclusive Call Ringtones

The subscription is also expected to include 10 premium call ringtones. These custom tones can help users personalize incoming WhatsApp calls beyond the default sounds currently available.

Pin Up to 20 Chats

One of the most practical upgrades is the ability to pin up to 20 chats. Currently, regular WhatsApp users can only pin three conversations at the top of their chat list.

For users who manage multiple work groups, family chats, clients, and friends simultaneously, this expanded pinning feature could become genuinely useful.

Advanced Chat Controls

WhatsApp Plus is also said to offer enhanced chat list controls, including better theme management and notification customization options. These tools may help users organize chats more efficiently and create a more personalised messaging experience overall.

WhatsApp Plus Subscription Price

In certain parts of Europe, it is said that the WhatsApp Plus subscription has been made available for about €2.49 per month, which comes out to be approximately Rs 280 in India.

The price will, however, differ from one country to another after WhatsApp has made its service available across the globe.

The service follows a billing pattern on a monthly basis and will continue on an auto-renewal basis until canceled by users manually using the subscription option in the Apple App Store. WhatsApp Plus subscription charges have yet not been made known for India officially.

Is WhatsApp Plus Available in India?

As of now, there is no official WhatsApp Plus available for use in India. This functionality will be rolled out gradually to a selected few iPhone users in certain regions.

The feature might not be accessible by default even for those using the latest WhatsApp application because it will be enabled on the servers' side for select users only.

Once it goes live, eligible users can make use of this function from the Settings tab in WhatsApp. Moreover, it is essential to highlight the point that this feature is still being tested in the normal WhatsApp Messenger application and not in WhatsApp Business.

Could WhatsApp Plus Come to Android Later?

While the current rollout mainly targets iPhone users, reports suggest Android beta testers may eventually get access to the feature as well. Since WhatsApp usually tests new features on both iOS and Android before wider releases, there is a strong possibility that Android users will eventually receive the subscription too. However, no official launch timeline has been shared yet.

Why WhatsApp is Introducing a Premium Subscription

With the advent of WhatsApp Plus, there has been a bigger change in how such messaging applications have been developing. While the trend was to charge users for essential features offered by messaging platforms, businesses are now looking to monetise additional services related to beautification, productivity, and personalisation.

This move will allow WhatsApp to remain a free application, but still make profits from those who want something extra. Additionally, it will help the application keep pace with competitors who offer premium services.

FAQs About WhatsApp Plus

What are the benefits of WhatsApp Plus?

The subscription offers premium themes, animated sticker packs, alternate app icons, exclusive ringtones, advanced chat controls, and the ability to pin up to 20 chats.

Is WhatsApp Plus available on Android?

Currently, the rollout is focused mainly on select iPhone users. Android beta testing may happen later.

Is WhatsApp Plus available in India?

No, WhatsApp Plus has not officially launched in India yet.

Will regular WhatsApp users lose features?

No. Standard messaging, calls, video calls, and other core features will remain free for everyone.

Is this the same as unofficial WhatsApp Plus apps?

No. This is an official subscription feature from WhatsApp itself and is different from unofficial modified APK versions available online.