WhatsApp Plus Launches in India: New ₹79 Subscription Brings Themes, Icons and Advanced Chat Controls

Meta has introduced a new premium subscription service for WhatsApp users in India, offering a range of customization options and enhanced chat management tools. Called WhatsApp Plus, the paid plan is designed for users who want a more personalized messaging experience without changing the app's core functionality.

Available on both Android and iPhone devices, the subscription introduces exclusive themes, custom app icons, premium notification sounds, and additional chat organization features. The launch reflects Meta's growing focus on premium services as it looks to expand revenue opportunities beyond advertising.

What Is WhatsApp Plus?

WhatsApp Plus is a subscription-based upgrade that adds personalization and productivity features to the standard WhatsApp experience. While the free version of WhatsApp continues to offer messaging, calling, and privacy features, the Plus plan provides users with extra tools to customize the app's appearance and improve conversation management.

The service targets users who spend significant time on WhatsApp and want greater control over how the platform looks and functions.

Exclusive Themes and Visual Customization

One of the biggest attractions of WhatsApp Plus is its collection of premium themes and design options.

Subscribers can choose from 18 exclusive color themes, allowing them to personalize the interface according to their preferences. Some of the featured themes include:

  • Royal Purple
  • Vibrant Blue
  • Fuchsia Pink
  • Forest Green
  • Additional color variations

The subscription also includes 14 exclusive app icon designs. Users can replace the standard WhatsApp icon with alternative styles that better match their device setup and personal taste.

These customization options are intended to give WhatsApp a fresh look while allowing users to create a more unique experience.

Access to Premium Ringtones

WhatsApp Plus subscribers also gain access to a collection of exclusive notification sounds and ringtones.

The premium sound library includes up to 10 unique tones, such as:

  • Meadow
  • Carnival
  • Ripple
  • Flutter
  • Other exclusive sound effects

These options provide more variety than the standard ringtone selection available in the free version of the app.

Advanced Chat Organization Tools

Beyond visual customization, WhatsApp Plus introduces features aimed at improving conversation management.

The subscription allows users to:

  • Pin up to 20 chats at the top of their chat list.
  • Organize conversations more efficiently.
  • Customize chat layouts for easier navigation.
  • Prioritize important contacts and frequently used chats.

These tools can be particularly useful for professionals, business owners, and users who manage large numbers of conversations daily.

Core WhatsApp Features Remain Unchanged

Meta has emphasized that WhatsApp Plus does not alter the platform's essential communication and security features.

Subscribers will continue to receive the same protections and services available to all users, including:

  • End-to-end encryption
  • Voice calling
  • Video calling
  • Messaging services
  • Status updates
  • Privacy and security controls

The subscription focuses solely on customization and organizational enhancements rather than modifying WhatsApp's core functionality.

WhatsApp Plus Subscription Price

The new service is priced at ₹79 per month after the introductory period.

According to the rollout details, eligible users may receive a free one-month trial before being charged the monthly subscription fee. This allows users to explore the premium features before deciding whether to continue with the plan.

How to Activate WhatsApp Plus

Users interested in subscribing can activate the service directly through the WhatsApp application.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open WhatsApp on your smartphone.
  2. Navigate to the Settings menu.
  3. Tap on the Subscription section.
  4. Select WhatsApp Plus.
  5. Review the available features.
  6. Proceed with the payment process.
  7. Complete the transaction.

Once payment is confirmed, users will receive a notification indicating that WhatsApp Plus has been activated on their account.

A New Direction for WhatsApp

The introduction of WhatsApp Plus marks another step in Meta's strategy to expand premium offerings across its platforms. As messaging apps become increasingly competitive, customization and user experience enhancements are emerging as important differentiators.

For users looking to personalize their messaging environment with unique themes, icons, sounds, and expanded chat controls, WhatsApp Plus offers a new subscription-based option. Whether the additional features justify the monthly fee will ultimately depend on how much value users place on customization and advanced organization tools within their daily messaging experience.