Meta Platforms has officially launched WhatsApp Plus, an optional paid subscription tier for its ubiquitous messaging app, targeting South African users. Priced at R28.99 per month, with the first month offered entirely free, the subscription represents a broader strategic push by Meta to diversify its revenue streams beyond its core advertising business.
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For users worried about a paywall hitting their daily chats, take a breath: Meta has explicitly stated that core messaging functionalities will remain completely free.
The WhatsApp Plus tier focuses strictly on cosmetic and organizational upgrades rather than altering the fundamental way the app works. Subscribers gain access to six exclusive quality-of-life and customization features:
- Visual Themes & Custom Icons: Personalize the interface with new color schemes for messages, backgrounds, and icons, alongside an exclusive custom app icon for your home screen.
- Advanced Chat Organization: Utilize enhanced chat lists to easily sort and structure busy conversation feeds.
- Expanded Pinned Chats: Bypass the standard limit of three pinned conversations, allowing you to keep more critical chats anchored to the top of your app.
- Exclusive Media & Audio: Access unique premium sticker packs and exclusive ringtones.
Interestingly, Meta has localized the pricing favourably for the South African market. At R28.99/month (which includes local taxes), the subscription is significantly cheaper than its US counterpart, which retails at $2.99 (approximately R49.27).
While the first month is free, users must provide an upfront payment method, and the subscription will automatically renew monthly until manually cancelled.
How to Subscribe:
- iOS Users: Tap the profile icon within the app and navigate to the Subscriptions section under Settings.
- Android Users: Access Settings via the three-dot menu on the home screen to find the signup prompt.
