We've known since early September that Meta was considering a paid, ad-free version of its apps for users in the European Union, and we already know exactly how much that ad-free experience in those apps will cost.
Meta is starting to ask users to sign up for the paid “ad-free” version of Facebook and Instagram which is being launched in Europe. It is being rolled out as Meta responds to new EU privacy regulations by positioning using its services with targeted ads as a choice for users. Of course, that option is also the only alternative available to remove ads on Facebook and Instagram.
The new notice clarifies that people who use both Facebook and Instagram will eventually have to pay an additional fee to cover both profiles. The pop-up appears on Instagram and Facebook.
Costs of not having ads on Facebook and Instagram
According to a report on Tuesday from The Wall Street Journal, Meta is proposing an ad-free experience for Facebook or Instagram for around €10 in desktop versions.
The rate for not having ads is €9,99 per month when purchased on the web (desktop version) or €12,99 per month if purchased through the app stores. Google o Apple Lossless Audio CODEC (ALAC),. Right now, that subscription fee covers all linked accounts.
However, after March 1, subscribers will have to pay an additional fee for any additional profiles linked in their Meta Account Center. It is €6 per month if purchased directly or €8 if purchased through an app store. The ad-free service is only offered to users over 18 years of age.
"Meta believes in the value of free services that are supported by personalized ads, the company is looking at options to ensure we comply with evolving regulatory requirements."
According to the Wall Street Journal, users will still have the option to use a free version of Instagram and Facebook, but they will have to put up with ads. Paying subscribers, however, can use ad-free iterations of Instagram and Facebook, freeing themselves from the invasive tracking required to launch personalized ads.
This is just one example of the many battles Meta has faced with EU regulators. Most of the fights are the result of the adaptation of the European General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, which is one of the most valuable pieces of legislation to protect people's online privacy and data.
Data Protection affects Meta
According to the Meta notice, it is introducing this new option because "The laws are changing in your region." The company will ask adult users in countries where this feature is available to choose to subscribe or use its products for free. Of course, choosing the free option instead of paid rates means that «you will discover products and brands through personalized ads» and that "your information will be used for advertisements."
“This new subscription model has been taken into account in our most recently announced business outlook and guidance. This release contains forward-looking statements, including Meta's business prospects and the evolving regulatory landscape. You should not rely on these statements as predictions of future events. Additional information regarding potential risks and uncertainties regarding our business and financial results can be found in our most recent Form 10-Q. Meta undertakes no obligation to update these statements as a result of new information or future events.
Can I continue using Instagram and Facebook without paying?
Meta's statement said he believes "on an advertising-supported Internet, which gives people access to personalized products and services regardless of their economic situation". Staying true to his beliefs, Meta will continue to allow users to use its services for free with ads.
However, it is important to note that Meta mentioned in his statement: «As of March 1, 2024, it will apply an additional fee of €6/month on the web and €8/month on iOS and Android for each additional account that appears in a user's Account Center ». So for now, the subscription will cover accounts on all platforms, but the cost will increase in the future for users with more than one account.
Which countries will get the new ad-free subscription option?
The following countries can access the new Meta subscription:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland and Sweden.
At the moment it is unknown if Meta plans to expand this service to other regions. Currently, the only regions that can sign up for an ad-free plan are those listed above, but if it's successful in those countries, Meta may be able to roll it out to other regions.
What is the difference between Meta Verified and this ad-free plan?
Launched in early 2023, Meta Verified allows Facebook and Instagram users to pay for a blue tick next to their name. Yes, the same brand that celebrities with significant followers usually have. This subscription service was launched as a way for users to protect their accounts and promote their businesses.
Meta Verified costs around €14/month. It gives users the blue check mark and provides additional account support and protection against impersonators.
While Meta Verified offers several unique account privacy features for users, it does not offer an ad-free subscription. Currently, Meta Verified subscribers must also pay for an ad-free account if they live in one of the supported countries.
How can I sign up for Meta's ad-free plan for Instagram and Facebook?
Users can sign up for the ad-free subscription through their Facebook or Instagram accounts. Here's what you need to register:
- First go to the account settings on Facebook or Instagram.
- Click on subscribe to the ad-free plan in the subscriptions tab.
Meta says that nothing will change in your current account if you decide to keep your account as is, which means you don't sign up for the ad-free plan. In other words, you'll see exactly the same number of ads as you've always seen, wonderful.
