Meta floats $14 a month ad-free plan for Instagram, Facebook in EU – WSJ

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is reportedly considering a plan that would require users in the European Union (EU) to pay up to $14 for ad-free versions of the platforms. Alternatively, users could choose to access the free versions with personalized ads. The Wall Street Journal reported on this potential pricing model.

Under the proposed plan, Meta would charge approximately 10 euros ($10.46) per month for a Facebook or Instagram account on a desktop. Additionally, each linked account would cost around 6 euros. On mobile devices, the price for a single account would rise to roughly 13 euros, accounting for commissions charged by Apple’s and Google’s app stores.

This move comes after Meta was fined 390 million euros by Ireland’s Data Privacy Commissioner for using the “contract” legal basis to send users ads based on their online activity. In response, Meta expressed its intention to seek user consent in the EU before allowing businesses to target advertising, to comply with evolving regulatory requirements in the region.

Meta has informed European regulators that it plans to launch the subscription no ads (SNA) feature in the coming months for users in Europe. However, Meta did not respond to requests for comment from Reuters.

The New York Times previously reported that Meta was considering offering paid versions of Facebook and Instagram with no ads for EU users, but it did not provide details about the pricing.

A Meta spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal that the company believes in “free services that are supported by personalized ads” but is exploring options to ensure compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.

It remains to be seen how EU users will respond to the introduction of paid ad-free versions of Facebook and Instagram. The pricing model is intended to provide a choice for users who prefer an ad-free experience while still supporting the platforms’ operations.

In conclusion, Meta Platforms is reportedly considering a plan to offer ad-free versions of Facebook and Instagram in the EU for a fee. This move follows regulatory scrutiny and fines related to targeted advertising practices. The proposed pricing model aims to strike a balance between user preferences and compliance with EU regulations.