Meta on Monday announced it will offer people in the EU, EEA and Switzerland the choice to pay a monthly fee to use Facebook and Instagram for no ads. They can alternatively continue to use these services for free, but will be seeing ads that are relevant to them. The social networking giant said, "to comply with evolving European regulations, it is introducing a new subscription option in the EU, EEA and Switzerland."
"In November, we will be offering people who use Facebook or Instagram and reside in these regions the choice to continue using these personalised services for free with ads, or subscribe to stop seeing ads. While people are subscribed, their information will not be used for ads," Meta wrote in a blog post.
Meta's Subscription Fee In The EU
People in the EU, Switzerland and EEA will be able to subscribe for a fee to use Meta and its owned social media companies without ads. Depending on where they purchase it will cost €9.99/month on the web or €12.99/month on iOS and Android devices. Regardless of where they purchase, the subscription will apply to all linked Facebook and Instagram accounts in a user’s Accounts Center.
As is the case for many online subscriptions, the iOS and Android pricing take into account the fees that Apple and Google charge through respective purchasing policies. Until March 1, 2024, the initial subscription will cover all linked accounts in a user’s Accounts Center. However, beginning March 1, 2024, an additional fee of €6/month on the web and €8/month on iOS and Android devices will apply for each additional account listed in a user’s Account Center.
Meta has said it believes in an "ad-supported Internet", which gives people access to personalised products and services regardless of their economic status.
"It also allows small businesses to reach potential customers, grow their business and create new markets, driving growth in the European economy. And like other companies we’ll continue to advocate for an ad-supported internet, even with our new subscription offering in the EU, EEA and Switzerland. But we respect the spirit and purpose of these evolving European regulations, and are committed to complying with them," Meta added.