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WhatsApp is preparing to launch a new subscription model; find out which features you might have to pay for
Siddhi Jain | February 3, 2026 7:15 PM CST

WhatsApp is testing a new optional premium plan in its beta version. This plan may give users the opportunity to customize the app to their liking. Not only that, but premium users will also be able to pin more than three chats to the top.

It seems WhatsApp is now preparing to give users a new reason to pay for the app. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the company is working on an optional premium subscription. This will offer some exclusive features that will not be available to regular users. This plan is not yet fully ready, and WhatsApp is currently testing it in its beta version. Some users may even see a waitlist for this new plan. The good news is that this subscription will not be mandatory. If you are happy using WhatsApp for free as you are now, you will be able to continue using it that way.

Which features will require payment?

The question is, what will you get for paying? According to the report, premium users may get more options to customize the app. This could include customization features such as special stickers, different themes, the option to change the app icon to your liking, and even different ringtones for chats. WhatsApp may soon introduce a feature that will allow users to pin more than three chats to the top. Currently, the app only allows pinning a maximum of three chats. Premium users are also expected to receive some new and exclusive features, such as exclusive chat ringtones.

WhatsApp says this is just the beginning. More premium features may be added in the future based on user feedback. The plan is currently under development, so some changes may be seen before the launch.

WhatsApp is also working on a 'Thinking Mode'

WhatsApp is not only working on a subscription plan but also on some new features. One of these is Meta AI's new 'Thinking Mode'. When this feature is enabled, the AI ​​will take a little more time to understand the question thoroughly before responding, and will provide a more detailed answer. Users can choose between a quick response or a deeper, more insightful answer. This feature is linked to Meta AI and is being gradually rolled out within WhatsApp.


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