Paid Facebook and Instagram: Here's what you need to know

As of November 6, Meta has launched a version of Paid Facebook and Instagram and without advertising. This move was justified by Meta as an adaptation to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) approved by the European Union.

Paid Facebook and Instagram

The initial news was anticipated by the Wall Street Journal, but now it's official: paid Facebook and Instagram are about to debut inXNUMX-XNUMX business days, including the Swiss market. These new subscriptions offer users the opportunity to use the platforms without annoying advertisements. Those who instead choose to maintain the'free access to these social networks, you will continue to display personalized ads and share your data for advertising targeting purposes.

But how much will these paid services cost? The cost will vary based on the subscription method and the virtual location in which it will be carried out. If you decide to subscribe via the web version, the cost will be 9,99 euros per month. If, however, you choose to subscribe via the mobile app, regardless of the operating system (iOS or Android), the monthly cost it will be 12,99 euros. This price difference is explained directly by Meta. Prices for iOS and Android include fees charged by Apple and Google, based on their respective purchasing policies.

Meta said that these subscriptions will cover all accounts linked to the main one, at least until March 2024. However, it is important to note that costs may increase in the future.

The motivations

But why did Meta decide to make Facebook and Instagram paid in Europe? The basic explanation is that if you are willing to share your data and agree to see targeted ads, then you can continue to use these platforms for free. On the contrary, if you want to protect your privacy and free yourself from ads, you will need to sign up for the paid subscription.

Meta stressed that this decision is in line with the rulings issued by the Court of Justice of the European Union. According to Meta, this form of advertising-free subscription represents a valid alternative to allow the financing of services, while complying with the requirements of European regulatory authorities and offering users the possibility to choose the model they prefer.

In short, with this new offering, Meta seeks to balance the needs of users, regulators and the company itself, allowing everyone to enjoy Facebook and Instagram in a personalized way, depending on their preferences. There possibility to subscribe Advertising-free services represent an option that offers you more control over your online experience, while respecting European regulations on privacy and advertising.