Meta Considering Paid Versions of Instagram and Facebook for EU Users

Meta is facing scrutiny in the European Union (EU) regarding its privacy and advertising practices on social apps. As a response to regulatory concerns, Meta is exploring the possibility of introducing paid versions of both Instagram and Facebook for users within the EU.

Insiders familiar with the matter, as reported by The New York Times, state that Meta might offer subscriptions to EU Facebook and Instagram users, granting them an ad-free experience on one or both of the platforms.

These subscriptions will not be mandatory, providing users with the freedom to choose. This approach allows Meta to comply with the EU’s requests while also generating revenue. Although incorporating ads in everyone’s feeds could potentially increase Meta’s profits, the introduction of paid versions of Facebook and Instagram is expected to offset some of the anticipated losses.

It is important to note that the free versions of Facebook and Instagram will continue to be available alongside the paid alternatives in the EU. The pricing details for the ad-free versions of these platforms, as well as their release dates, have yet to be determined by Meta.