WhatsApp has rolled out a new feature that will allow Indian users to complete prepaid mobile recharges directly within the app. The rollout is currently underway in phases across Android and iOS devices. This new feature, powered by PayU, enables users to recharge their own mobile numbers or those of others without leaving the application.
WhatsApp will now support prepaid plans from major telecom operators, including Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea.
Users will be able to browse available recharge plans, select a preferred option, and complete the transaction within the app. Payments can be made using UPI, debit cards, and credit cards.
WhatsApp has also added a dedicated ₹ icon on the home screen. This icon will serve as an access point for UPI payments, recharge options, metro ticketing services, and the ability to send money within chat threads.
To use this new feature, users will need to tap the ₹ icon, select the prepaid recharge option, choose the mobile number, confirm the operator, pick a plan, and complete payment.
WhatsApp already offers services such as metro ticket booking and access to government services through its chat-based features.
New Paid Subscription for users
Beyond the recent addition of prepaid recharge services, WhatsApp is also planning to introduce a new paid subscription. This feature has been spotted in the app’s Android beta ahead of a wider iOS rollout. The subscription plan is part of Meta’s broader strategy to generate revenue from its massive user base.
These new features have already been tested under a “WhatsApp Plus” paid subscription. While the rollout is currently limited, a broader launch is expected.
The new paid subscription is expected to include:
Premium stickers
The ability to change the app’s theme
Custom app icons
Pinning extra chats
Premium ringtones
Enhanced chat list features
Since the feature has only been available in international markets so far, pricing appears to be around $2.99 per month. An example from a European user showed a price of €2.49 per month.
