Meta has officially confirmed it will begin testing Meta confirms tests of new paid tiers for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. According to a company spokesperson speaking to TechCrunch, the tests are slated to begin “in the coming months”.
The company emphasises that the fundamental, ad-supported experience of messaging and social networking will remain free for everyone. The new optional paid tiers are designed to offer exclusive features focused on enhanced control, creativity, and access to advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This strategic move, as noted by industry analysts, represents a significant effort by the advertising giant to diversify its revenue streams.
What the Premium Subscriptions Will Offer
The tests are expected to roll out distinct features per app, rather than a single bundled package. While Meta has not released a full official list, some specific features have emerged.
Officially Confirmed Components:
A central pillar of the subscriptions will be expanded access to AI. Meta confirmed to TechCrunch that it plans to integrate its acquired AI agent technology, Manus, into these plans. Furthermore, the company’s AI-powered short-form video tool, Vibes, will adopt a “freemium” model, granting subscribers additional monthly creation opportunities.
Features Based on In-App Findings:
For Instagram, credible app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi has uncovered code suggesting a paid tier may include features like:
- Viewing Stories anonymously.
- Creating unlimited custom audience lists for posts.
- Seeing a list of accounts you follow that don’t follow you back.
For WhatsApp, reports suggest a subscription could involve removing ads from sections like Statuses and Channels.
A Clear Distinction from Meta Verified
Meta has clarified that these new premium tiers are separate from its Meta Verified programme. Launched in 2023, Meta Verified is primarily a verification and account security service for creators, public figures, and businesses, offering a blue badge, impersonation protection, and direct support.
In contrast, the new subscriptions target a broader general audience with tools for enhanced productivity and creativity, not verification.
The Strategy Behind the New Tiers
This initiative is part of a wider industry pivot towards hybrid monetisation models. For Meta, it is a direct avenue to generate a return on its enormous investments in AI research and development. The company is following the proven path of rivals like Snapchat, whose Snapchat+ service has successfully attracted millions of paying subscribers with exclusive app features.
A summary of Meta’s subscription approaches is below:
| Service | Target Audience | Primary Benefits | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Premium Tiers | Broad user base | Advanced AI tools, enhanced control & creativity | Testing begins soon |
| Meta Verified | Creators & Businesses | Verification badge, security, support | Launched in 2023 |
The key challenge for Meta will be overcoming subscription fatigue and demonstrating that these premium features offer compelling, unique value to everyday users.
What Happens Next
Meta has stated it will start testing in select regions and use user feedback to shape the final offerings. Critical details such as pricing, exact launch markets, and the complete feature list remain undisclosed and are expected to be revealed during the testing phase.
If successful, these subscriptions could mark a new chapter for Meta, building a more diversified business model where users can optionally pay for advanced capabilities beyond the standard free experience.
