Meta is set to begin testing paid subscription options across its major platforms — Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp
According to a report by TechCrunch, the company plans to introduce subscription-based tools that give users enhanced control over privacy, content sharing, and engagement. Meta said these paid options would unlock exclusive features designed to improve how people connect and interact online, without affecting free access for regular users.
The tech giant revealed that each app will have different subscription bundles, meaning Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp users may see unique premium benefits depending on the platform.
As part of this broader strategy, Meta also intends to expand the use of Manus, an artificial intelligence agent it recently acquired in a deal reportedly worth about $2 billion. Manus is expected to be integrated into Meta’s products, while separate AI subscriptions will continue for businesses.
Screenshots shared by well-known app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi suggest Meta is already testing ways to integrate Manus directly into Instagram, including a possible shortcut feature.
In addition, Meta is preparing to roll out paid plans for AI-powered tools such as Vibes — a short-form AI video creation feature within the Meta AI app. Although Vibes has been free since launch, it is expected to shift to a freemium model, offering limited usage at no cost and paid options for higher video creation limits.
While Meta has not yet disclosed full details for Facebook and WhatsApp subscriptions, early findings indicate Instagram’s premium features could include tools like anonymous story viewing, seeing who doesn’t follow you back, and creating unlimited audience lists.
Meta stressed that these new subscriptions will be separate from Meta Verified, its existing paid service that provides verification badges, account protection, and customer support for creators and businesses.
The company says insights from Meta Verified will help shape future subscription offerings for everyday users. However, industry analysts caution that growing “subscription fatigue” could affect adoption, as users already juggle multiple monthly digital payments.
Despite this concern, Meta pointed to competitors like Snapchat, whose Snapchat+ service — priced from $3.99 monthly — has already attracted over 16 million subscribers, suggesting strong demand for premium social media features.
Meta says it will rely heavily on user feedback as it begins testing and gradually rolling out these subscription plans.