Meta will test paid subscriptions on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, offering premium tools while keeping core services free

Meta has announced plans to trial paid subscription services across its platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, providing users access to exclusive features while keeping core services free.

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According to TechCrunch, the company said the new subscriptions would offer premium tools and give users “more control over how they share and connect” on the platforms.

Each app will feature its own set of benefits, and Meta intends to experiment with different subscription models and feature bundles.

The company also revealed plans to integrate Manus, an AI agent it acquired for $2 billion, into its subscription offerings.

Screenshots shared by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi indicate that Meta is testing a shortcut to Manus AI on Instagram, highlighting the company’s strategy to combine AI tools with premium experiences.

Additionally, Meta plans to introduce subscriptions for AI-powered tools such as Vibes, a short-form AI video generation feature built into the Meta AI app.

While Vibes has been free since launch, it will shift to a freemium model, offering limited access for free with paid options for additional video creation each month.

Details for paid features on Facebook and WhatsApp remain limited, but Instagram subscriptions could include perks such as unlimited audience lists, the ability to view followers who do not follow back, and anonymous Story viewing.

Meta clarified that the new subscriptions will be separate from Meta Verified, its existing paid service for creators and businesses.

Meta Verified currently provides a verified badge, direct support, impersonation protection, search optimisation, and exclusive stickers.

Insights from this service will guide the expansion of subscriptions to everyday users, creators, and businesses.

Analysts caution that subscription fatigue could be a challenge amid growing digital spending.

Nevertheless, Meta points to Snapchat+ as a successful precedent, which has surpassed 16 million subscribers at $3.99 per month.

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Meta said it would rely on user feedback as it begins testing and rolling out the new subscriptions in the coming months.