WhatsApp Tests €4 Monthly Subscription for Ad-Free Experience

WhatsApp appears to be preparing a significant shift in its business model, with code discovered in the Android beta (version 2.26.3.9) indicating plans for an optional subscription service. According to findings from WABetaInfo, this would introduce a €4 monthly fee for users seeking an ad-free experience while preserving free access to core messaging and calling features.

Currently, WhatsApp's limited advertising appears exclusively in the Status updates section and channel recommendations within the Updates tab. Meta maintains these ads aren't personalized—meaning conversations about pets won't trigger pet food advertisements—and don't appear in private chats. However, Meta's business materials explicitly promote WhatsApp's advertising potential to reach over 1.5 billion users, signaling expanded ad integration.

The subscription model targets users frustrated by interruptions in the Status feed. Paying subscribers would eliminate both ads and channel suggestions in these sections, creating a streamlined viewing experience. Screenshots indicate a €4 price point, though this may serve as a temporary placeholder during testing.

This approach mirrors strategies seen in platforms like YouTube Premium or Spotify, offering enhanced experiences behind paywalls while maintaining free access tiers. For WhatsApp, this represents the first direct user-facing monetization beyond business services. Core functionality—including text/voice messaging, group chats, and media sharing—remains completely free regardless of subscription status.

Potential adopters include power users who frequently browse Status updates or manage channels, while casual users might tolerate occasional ads. Implementation details remain unconfirmed, including regional pricing variations or exact launch timeline. Meta hasn't officially commented, leaving the feature's final form uncertain pending broader testing and user feedback cycles.