Whatsapp starts charging android users $0.99 (INR 55)
Whatsapp is going to charge android users for continuing their service. While it clearly states before downloading the app that it is not a freeware but who even cares to read all those long and boring terms and conditions 
, we are only interested in clicking a series of “NEXTS” to finally get our hands on the application. By the way the iOS version of whatsapp has always been a paid one since its launch, not only that but also, it is the bestselling iOS app in the world, Canada in particular.
As per whatsapp terms of use, andorid users have to pay $0.99 ( around 55 INR ) after one year of free service to continue using it and as iOS users would have already paid this amount prior to installing it on their iphone and ipads, they won’t be asked to pay for the app again.
While I’m surprised to see so many users crying when they have to pay even less than a dollar ( 55 INR ) to continue using the service. And yet , I think I fully understand the reasons behind this phenomenon.
For those who have just obtained access to the Internet, I must inform you that WhatsApp is an instant messaging app that has gradually been replacing the traditional SMS services through its ability to use wireless networks to communicate with our friends. Thus one of the greatest advantage of the service has always been the savings that comes from the fact that Whatsapp allows free communication ( For 1 year) with our loved ones with features like multimedia sharing. The service hit the nail when millions of young users started using it.
You must have these questions in mind.
Will whatsapp charge $0.99 ? YES
Will I be spared if I forward those hoax mesages ? No. That’s utter crap. [ There have been news flooding the Internet that by forwarding a certain message to 10 of your whatsapp contacts can extend your whatsapp membership without having to pay a dime ]
Will whatsapp be a free service in future ? NO
Time to look for Whatsapp alternatives ?
Well if you have saved more than a dollar since you have been using the app, then paying for continuing the service would be a good investment for you or else you might consider using some Whatsapp alternative that are completely free to use. While there may be other reasons to switch over to a Whatsapp alternative, like the one that comes to mind is that, not everyone using Whatsapp have a credit card as we already know majority of the users are youngsters, this is true for almost 95% of whatsapp users in India and thus even while interested in paying cannot due to lack of a credit card.
Well this is what my Service Expiration status of Whatsapp is.
Check out your service expiration date.
- Open WhatsApp
- Press “Menu” >> “Setting” >> “Account” >> “Payment Info” >> “ Service Expiration”
By the way I’m using Whatsapp on my Windows PC. Yes. that’s possible. To know how you might consider reading this post.
How to run Whatsapp and other android apps on your Windows PC / Mac ?
What are your views on a free service turning into a paid one ? Don’t be shy use your freedom of speech effectively in the comment section .