Meta Reportedly Considering Paid Ad-Free Option for Instagram and Facebook in Europe

Meta is reportedly developing a paid subscription model for European users to access ad-free versions of Instagram and Facebook. The move aims to comply with upcoming EU privacy regulations limiting targeted advertising.

Subscription No Ads Service

According to a Wall Street Journal report, Meta's proposed service is named "subscription no ads" (SNA) and would cost approximately $14 per month on mobile and up to $17 on desktop.

The hefty subscription fee underscores Meta's reluctance to lose advertising revenue from European markets. But regulators may push back and request a cheaper offering for users unwilling to share personal data for targeted ads.

Navigating New EU Privacy Rules

The SNA proposal is Meta's attempt to navigate stringent new EU data privacy regulations set to take effect. The rules require explicit user consent to enable targeted advertising.

By offering a paid ad-free option, Meta hopes to retain access to user data for targeting ads to those not subscribed. But regulators are still reviewing if this approach sufficiently upholds privacy standards.

No Current Plans for Ads-Free Service in the US

Since the EU regulations don't apply in the US, Meta has indicated no plans to roll out a paid ad-free service domestically.

However, Meta does offer the Meta Verified subscription in the US, granting blue verification badges on Instagram and Facebook for $12-$15 per month.

As Meta weighs paid models in the EU, it continues facing regulatory scrutiny over its advertising-based business model. How it balances revenue generation and user privacy will remain an ongoing challenge.