You can now recharge your phone directly on WhatsApp: Here's how

WhatsApp has started rolling out a new feature in India that allows users to recharge prepaid mobile numbers directly within the app, as it expands into everyday utility services.


The feature, powered by PayU, is being introduced in phases across Android and iOS and will be available to all users in the coming weeks.



According to the messaging platform, users can recharge their own number or that of friends and family without leaving the app. The service supports prepaid connections on Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea, with multiple plan options available.


The move is part of WhatsApp’s broader effort to build a unified experience within the app. “By bringing recharges directly into WhatsApp, we are making it easier for people to stay connected without having to switch between multiple apps,” said Ravi Garg, Director, Business Messaging, Meta India.


WhatsApp has also added a ₹ icon on the home screen to make it easier to access payments, including UPI transactions, recharges and services such as metro ticket bookings.


PayU said the integration is aimed at enabling “embedded payments”, allowing users to complete frequent transactions within apps they already use.


The rollout adds to WhatsApp’s growing list of use cases in India, where the platform is already used for payments, bill payments, metro ticketing and access to government services.


How to recharge on WhatsApp

• Tap the ₹ icon on the home screen
  
• Select “Mobile Prepaid Recharge”
  
• Choose the number (self or contact)
  
• Confirm the operator
  
• Select a plan
  
• Choose a payment method (UPI, debit or credit card)
  
• Complete the payment

Once done, the recharge is processed instantly within the app.