South Africa, June 22 -- The subscription, called WhatsApp Plus, is appearing within the app's settings menu for South African users and includes additional functionality beyond the standard free service. The rollout follows Meta's announcement in May that it would introduce premium subscription offerings across WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.

According to reports, WhatsApp Plus provides subscribers with enhanced features, including custom chat themes, expanded profile customisation options and additional tools aimed at power users. The service is optional, with the core WhatsApp messaging platform remaining free.

The move marks another step in Meta's broader strategy to diversify revenue streams beyond advertising. While WhatsApp has...