Instagram and Facebook launch paid copy in Europe for €9.99 per month

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced a major change in its business approach in Europe. Starting in November, users will have the option to pay for an ad-free experience on both Facebook and Instagram platforms.

This change comes at a critical time, with the European Union amending its regulations on data protection and digital markets. Meta’s decision is in line with the legal framework of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the DMA (Digital Markets Act) is expected to enter into force.

Subscription will cost €9.99 per month if purchased through the website, and €12.99 per month on iOS Android devices. This price will cover all associated Facebook and Instagram accounts at the User Account Center until March 2024. After that date, additional charges will apply to each additional account.

Users now face an option: stick to the ad-supported version or opt-in. Those who choose to subscribe will have the advantage of not using their information for advertising purposes, although many will definitely choose to continue without paying.

Advertisers will still be able to run ad hoc advertising campaigns for users who choose the free version. Meta assured that it would continue to invest in tools that balanced user privacy with advertisers’ needs.

The company announces these changes as a step aimed at complying with the EU General Data Protection Act, where users are given the possibility to choose whether they want to watch ads or if they prefer to get rid of them through monthly payment.

Those who decide not to pay for a subscription will be able to continue to use Instagram and Facebook completely free of charge in exchange for continuing to see personalized ads.