-By ArdorComm News Network
October 4, 2023
Meta Platforms is reportedly considering a new plan in which users in the European Union may have to pay up to $14 per month to access ad-free versions of Facebook or Instagram. Alternatively, they can opt for personalized ads on the free versions of these platforms. According to sources familiar with the proposal, Meta would charge approximately 10 euros ($10.46) per month for a single Facebook or Instagram account when accessed on a desktop computer, with an additional fee of about 6 euros for each linked account.
On mobile devices, the cost for a single account would be around 13 euros due to commissions imposed by Apple’s and Google’s app stores. Earlier this year, Meta received a 390 million euro fine from Ireland’s Data Privacy Commissioner, which restricted its ability to use the “contract” legal basis for delivering ads based on users’ online activities. In response, Meta announced its intention to seek user consent in the EU before allowing businesses to target ads, aiming to comply with evolving regulatory requirements in the region.
Now, Meta has informed European regulators of its plans to introduce the ad-free offering, referred to as “subscription no ads” (SNA), in the coming months for European users. A Meta spokesperson stated that the company values “free services supported by personalized ads” but is exploring options to ensure compliance with evolving regulations. As of now, Meta, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission, and the European Commission have not provided comments in response to Reuters’ inquiries.
The New York Times initially reported on Meta’s consideration of paid versions of Facebook and Instagram without ads for EU users, although specific pricing details were not disclosed.