Facebook's parent company, Meta, has indicated that it may soon introduce premium subscription plans for users of platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. Meta has stated that it will begin testing new premium subscriptions on its apps in the coming months. These subscriptions could offer users more control, exclusive features, and access to advanced AI tools, while basic features will remain free.
What is Meta's plan?
Meta told TechCrunch that the company is working on a subscription model that will boost productivity and creativity. The goal is not just to increase revenue, but to provide better tools to users, creators, and businesses who use the platform more extensively. Meta has made it clear that it will not stick to a single model, but will test different features and bundles for different apps.
What special features could be available on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp?
Currently, full details of the paid features for all apps are not available, but leaks and reports have provided some clues. On Instagram, subscribers may be able to create unlimited audience lists, see followers who don't follow them back, and view stories without the other person knowing. However, not much information is available yet about the paid features for WhatsApp and Facebook, but it is believed that the focus will also be on tools related to business and creativity.
AI tools will be supported.
Meta is going to give artificial intelligence a special place in its subscription plans. The company will integrate the recently acquired AI agent Manus into its platforms and will also continue to offer separate subscriptions for business users. In addition, Meta's AI-based video tool Vibes may now be available in both free and premium models, where a subscription will be required for more extensive video creation.
How will this plan be different from Meta Verified?
It is important to understand that this new subscription will be completely different from 'Meta Verified'. Meta Verified is primarily for those who want a "blue tick" on their account and are looking for enhanced security and direct support. But the new premium plan is being designed for regular users, creators, and those who use the app to boost their productivity or gain new experiences. Meta believes that it will now adapt what it has learned from the Verified service to the needs of ordinary users.
Will Meta's gamble be successful?
Even though Meta is exploring new revenue streams, the biggest challenge it faces is the success of this plan. Almost every other app today is subscription-based. This raises the question of whether users will pay Meta. However, Meta is quite optimistic, given the success of Snapchat. The success of Snapchat+ proves that a market for social media subscriptions exists. This app's initial subscription price is $3.99 per month, and it already has over 16 million subscribers.
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