A vast number of apps and popular online services now charge a monthly subscription to access their online platforms, and it appears that WhatsApp could soon follow the same trend. According to the team at WABetaInfo, the Meta-owned messaging app seems to be developing a brand-new version of its chat service called WhatsApp Plus.

The proposed upgrade looks set to include a range of exclusive updates and tools which will set it apart from its current free-to-use sibling. One of the most notable additions coming to WhatsApp Plus would allow users to pin far more chats — increasing the current limit from five to as many as 20. For those unaware, this useful function lets users pin chats and keep conversations at the very top of the chat list for quick access. Pinned chats remain at the front and centre even when a new message is received.

Along with that update, the Plus version could also introduce deeper customisation options, such as changing the app’s theme, icon, and accent colours.

Other potential perks may include bonus sticker packs, extra ringtones, and new ways to react to messages with more immersive chat reactions.

Explaining more about what it has spotted, WABetaInfo said: “WhatsApp is developing a new optional premium subscription plan for the standard consumer app that will offer users extra features in exchange for a monthly fee. This plan is called ‘WhatsApp Plus’. It is currently under development for Android and iOS and has not yet been publicly released.”

Beyond the initial features, Meta may gradually add more extras over time for users who choose to subscribe.

For now, WhatsApp has not officially confirmed the reports. However, WABetaInfo claims to have spotted early test versions of WhatsApp Plus, suggesting that development is underway.

Importantly, the standard free version of WhatsApp is expected to remain available, meaning users will not be forced to pay. Instead, the subscription would simply offer additional features for those willing to pay a monthly fee.

More details about WhatsApp Plus are likely to emerge in the near future.

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