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Meta rolls out premium subscription trials for major platforms
Meta plans to introduce paid subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp in the coming months, offering users enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) features while keeping core services free, the company confirmed.
AI-driven features at the forefront
The subscription packages will include access to advanced AI tools, such as Meta's Vibes, a video generation app launched in September as part of the Meta AI platform. Vibes enables users to create visual content using AI-powered design capabilities.
Meta also intends to integrate Manus, a Singapore-based AI firm it acquired for approximately $2 billion in December, into its subscription offerings. Manus specializes in developing autonomous AI agents capable of performing complex tasks-such as trip planning or presentation creation-with minimal user input.
"Manus's technology will enhance our consumer and business products, including Meta AI, by delivering general-purpose agents that streamline workflows," Meta stated in a blog post following the acquisition.
Regulatory scrutiny and business strategy
The Manus deal has drawn attention from Chinese authorities, who announced in January an investigation into whether the acquisition violates technology export laws or national security regulations.
Meta will continue to offer standalone Manus subscriptions to businesses, separate from its consumer-focused plans.
Previous experiments with paid features
This latest initiative follows other tests of monetization strategies. In 2023, Meta introduced a paid verification service, granting users a blue checkmark on Facebook and Instagram for a monthly fee.
Last year, the company also trialed link-sharing restrictions for some users in the UK and US, limiting the number of links they could post without a subscription. The test aimed to assess whether increased link-sharing capabilities provided added value to paying subscribers.
Ad-free subscriptions expand in Europe
In late January, Meta began notifying UK users of a £2.99 monthly fee for ad-free access to Facebook and Instagram. The option, initially announced in September, requires users to either pay for an ad-free experience or continue using the platforms for free with personalized ads. EU users face a higher fee of €5.99 (approximately £5) per month for the same service.
What's next
Meta has not disclosed specific timelines for the rollout of its premium AI subscriptions but indicated that trials would begin in the coming months. The company continues to explore new revenue streams while maintaining free access to its core services.
