Meta said Monday that it will introduce an ad-free subscription option next month for people who use Facebook or Instagram in Europe.
The company said was complying with “evolving European regulations” by introducing opt-in in the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Starting in November, users will be able to choose to continue using Facebook or Instagram for free with ads, or subscribe to stop seeing ads, Meta said.
The cost will range between 9.99 euros per month ($10.58) on the web and 12.99 euros per month ($13.75) on iOS and Android devices, and will apply to the linked Facebook and Instagram accounts of the user. Starting March 1, 2024, an additional fee of €6 per month for the web version and €8 per month for mobile access will apply for additional accounts.
Meta’s core business has long focused on offering free social media services to users and selling advertising to companies that want to reach that audience. Providing a paid tier is an example of how companies like Meta are having to redesign products to comply with data privacy rules and other government policies, particularly in Europe.
In a statement on Monday, Meta said it was committed to keeping people’s information private and secure, but believed in an “ad-supported Internet” that provides users with personalized products and services, while allowing small companies reach potential customers.
“We respect the spirit and purpose of these evolving European regulations and are committed to complying with them,” Meta said.
