WhatsApp has rolled out its paid WhatsApp Plus subscription to iOS users, offering enhanced customization options for frequent app users. The tier, first spotted during beta testing, provides access to premium sticker packs with fullscreen animations, 18 accent color options to replace the default green interface, and 14 alternate app icons ranging from minimalist outlines to glittery designs. Users can also pin up to 20 chats (up from 3), select from 10 new ringtones, and apply bulk theme settings across chat lists.

The subscription costs $2.49/month in Europe and $29 in Mexico, though regional pricing variations exist. A trial period of one week or month may be available depending on location. Notably, WhatsApp Business account holders cannot access the plan, which remains exclusive to personal accounts. Core functionality—including messaging, voice/video calls, status updates, and end-to-end encryption—stays free for all users, ensuring no disruption to the base experience.

Rollout is currently limited to a small group of iOS users on the latest App Store version, with broader availability expected in the following weeks. The update positions WhatsApp as a competitor in the customization space, targeting users who prioritize aesthetic personalization over standard features. While the paid tier adds visual flair, it doesn’t restrict existing tools, aligning with WhatsApp’s strategy to monetize advanced customization without compromising accessibility.

This move could influence messaging app trends, pushing rivals like Signal or Telegram to expand their own premium tiers. For now, WhatsApp Plus remains a niche offering, appealing to power users willing to pay for granular control over their chat experience without sacrificing the platform’s foundational reliability.