By Ayomide Otitoju
Meta has launched paid subscription plans for its flagship social media platforms in a move aimed at reducing its long-standing dependence on advertising revenue.
Meta’s Head of Product, Naomi Gleit, announced the development in a video posted on Instagram, revealing that the company is rolling out Facebook Plus, Instagram Plus and WhatsApp Plus globally.
According to reports, Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus will cost $3.99 per month, while WhatsApp Plus will be priced at $2.99 monthly.
The subscription services are expected to provide users with additional features beyond the standard free versions of the apps.
Meta said Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus will include advanced analytics, story rewatch insights, improved audience reach and expanded profile customisation options.
WhatsApp Plus, on the other hand, will focus on enhanced personalisation features such as premium stickers, customised ringtones and app themes.
Gleit said the company plans to eventually unify the offerings under a single premium brand known as “Meta One”.
The launch comes as Meta faces growing investor scrutiny over its heavy spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company has projected capital expenditure of between $125 billion and $145 billion this year, largely driven by investments in AI data centres.
Meta had previously introduced paid ad-free versions of Facebook and Instagram in Europe in 2023 to comply with European Union data privacy regulations, allowing users to choose between subscription-based and ad-supported services.
