:

WHATSAPP TESTS PAID 'PLUS' SUBSCRIPTION WITH PREMIUM FEATURES

INDUSTRY DESK1 MIN READ
MON, APR 20, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE BELOW

Meta is rolling out WhatsApp Plus, a paid subscription service offering premium customization options to a limited number of users. The tier includes exclusive stickers, custom themes, and enhanced chat management tools.

WhatsApp Plus subscribers gain access to several cosmetic and functional upgrades. The package includes premium sticker packs, multiple app themes, custom app icons, and exclusive ringtones. Practical features added through the subscription allow users to pin up to 20 chats—double the standard limit—and apply custom settings in bulk across conversations. Meta has not announced pricing or a full rollout timeline. The subscription is currently available only to a limited user group as the company tests market demand for paid features on its messaging platform. The move represents Meta's continued effort to monetize WhatsApp beyond its traditional ad-free model, following previous tests of premium business features. Whether the subscription expands to all users depends on uptake and feedback from the current testing phase.

■ SOURCES

The Verge

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE BIG TECH DESK

Apple has named John Ternus as its next CEO, with Tim Cook transitioning to executive chairman. Analyst Gil Luria says the transition leaves Apple well-positioned.

JUST NOWIndustry Desk

The Justice Department is adopting a more cautious approach to media industry mergers as artificial intelligence and streaming reshape competitive dynamics. A senior DOJ official said enforcers need "cautious humility" when evaluating whether deals threaten competition.

1H AGOAI Desk

Apple has appointed Johny Srouji as chief hardware officer effective immediately, taking over from John Ternus, who will become CEO in September as Tim Cook transitions to chairman.

2H AGOIndustry Desk

Apple has named John Ternus as its next CEO, with current leader Tim Cook transitioning to executive chairman. The move drew praise from prominent investors.

2H AGOIndustry Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.