Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has taken a turn in its business strategy. In recent weeks, the company has made important decisions regarding the ad-free subscription option for its popular social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram. Why have you decided this? Well, it is said that he did it with in order to comply with data privacy regulations and in an effort to attract more users to this business model.
The ad-free subscription model on Facebook and Instagram
In 2023, Meta announced plans to offer a paid, ad-free version for Facebook and Instagram. All this with the aim of complying with data privacy regulations in the European Union. The Digital Services Law, in force since August of that year, prohibits digital platforms from placing advertisements based on the use of users' personal data without their express consent.
Since Meta decided to introduce an ad-free subscription model, mixed reactions have continued to arise among users. Some welcomed the opportunity to enjoy an experience free of invasive advertising. Others did not take it very well and They questioned the need to pay for services that were previously free.
The starting price of 9,99 euros (or 12,99 euros in the iOS and Android applications due to commissions from app stores) was considered by many to be too high.
Despite criticism, Meta defended its approach as a necessary measure to comply with evolving regulations. Also to provide users with an enhanced privacy option. The company noted that free versions with ads would still be available for those who did not wish to pay for the service without advertising.
Significant subscription cost reduction
In an unexpected twist, Meta has recently announced a reduction in the cost of ad-free subscription on Facebook and Instagram. Hereinafter, Users will be able to access Instagram and Facebook free of advertising for only 5,99 euros per month. In addition, the company has introduced a more affordable pricing scheme for additional accounts, costing 4 euros for each one.
This decision by Meta has been driven by the desire to "speed up the process" and "reach a stable state", according to statements made by Tim Lamb, the company's lawyer, to the European Commission. The price reduction seeks to make the ad-free option more attractive and accessible for a greater number of users.
According to Matthew Owen, spokesperson for Meta, the price drop is still in development, but The company hopes to implement it in the near future.