Follow-up - INA
In a significant shift since its inception, WhatsApp has begun testing a new subscription service called "WhatsApp Plus." This move represents a radical change in the strategy of the app, owned by Meta, as it moves for the first time towards offering optional paid features within the official application.
The Surprise of the Name and Features
According to the specialized website WABetaInfo, the new subscription appeared for a limited sample of beta users on both iOS and Android. The surprise wasn't just the service itself, but also the choice of the name "WhatsApp Plus," the same name the app fought against for years due to its association with unofficial versions that exposed users to bans and security risks. Now, it returns as an official and completely secure service.
The new features package (for an initial price of €2.49 per month) includes:
• Pinned Chats: The ability to pin up to 20 chats to the top of the list instead of the current limit of only 3.
• Visual customization: Change the app interface colors and customize the external icon to suit the user's taste.
• Exclusive content: Access exclusive stickers, effects, and ringtones not available in the free version.
• Advanced organization: Additional options for managing chat lists with greater flexibility.
Will free users be affected?
The report reassured millions of users that the new subscription will not affect core services. Messaging, calls, and end-to-end encryption will remain completely free, while the "Plus" features will be additional tools to enhance the user experience and customize the interface.