WhatsApp launches prepaid mobile recharge feature in India: Here’s how it works

Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has introduced a new feature in India that allows users to complete prepaid mobile recharges directly within the app, eliminating the need to switch between multiple applications. The rollout covers major telecom operators including Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi).

The feature is being introduced in phases across Android and iOS devices and will become available to all users over the coming weeks. It enables users to recharge their own mobile numbers or those of friends and family in just a few steps, streamlining what is typically a multi-app process.

Rollout covers major telecom operators and devices

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The prepaid recharge functionality supports leading telecom operators such as Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi). It is being rolled out gradually on both Android and iOS platforms and will expand to all users in the coming weeks.

WhatsApp expands payments ecosystem with ₹ icon shortcut

Alongside this update, WhatsApp is also enhancing the visibility of its payments ecosystem with a new “₹” icon. The shortcut provides users with a single entry point to access UPI-based payments, prepaid mobile recharges, and metro ticketing services available through WhatsApp integrations. Users can also initiate peer-to-peer money transfers using UPI directly from the chat tab.

Meta highlights focus on everyday utility services

Explaining the development, Ravi Garg, Director of Business Messaging at Meta India, said WhatsApp is increasingly becoming a hub for everyday services in the country.

“In India, WhatsApp is where people connect with friends and family—and increasingly, where they complete everyday essential tasks. By bringing recharges directly into WhatsApp, we are making it easier for people to stay connected without having to switch between multiple apps. This is part of our continued effort to help people get more done on WhatsApp, all in one place,” he noted.

How to make prepaid mobile recharge on WhatsApp?

People can complete a prepaid mobile recharge directly within WhatsApp through the following steps:

1) Tap the ₹ icon

2) Select 'Mobile Prepaid Recharge'

3) Choose the number (self, family, or friends)

4) Confirm the telecom operator

5) Select a recharge plan

6) Choose a payment method such as UPI, debit card, or credit card

7) Confirm and complete payment