Meta has introduced paid subscription plans for its major apps in a move aimed at reducing the company’s heavy dependence on advertising revenue.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Meta’s head of product, Naomi Gleit, in a video shared on Instagram. She revealed that the company is rolling out Facebook Plus, Instagram Plus and WhatsApp Plus worldwide, while additional subscription packages for businesses, creators and AI products are also being developed.
The development comes as Meta faces increasing pressure from investors over its huge spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company recently projected annual capital expenditure of between $125 billion and $145 billion, largely tied to the construction of AI data centres.
Following the announcement, Meta’s shares climbed by almost three percent.
Reports indicate that Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus will cost $3.99 monthly, while WhatsApp Plus will be available for $2.99 per month.
Subscribers to Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus will gain access to premium features such as enhanced analytics, story rewatch insights, expanded audience reach and additional profile customisation tools.
WhatsApp Plus, on the other hand, is expected to focus more on personalisation, offering premium stickers, customised ringtones and unique app themes.
Gleit also disclosed that Meta plans to eventually unify its subscription products under a broader brand known as Meta One.
