The parent company of Facebook and Instagram, Meta has unveiled plans to introduce a monthly subscription fee for users.
This initiative, known as the "no ads" or SNA plan, is expected to cost users approximately $14 per month, with variations for desktop and mobile users.
While there is no official word on the Indian market, experts speculate that similar changes could emerge if the European subscription model proves successful.
Meta's decision to introduce a subscription fee comes on the heels of its classification as a 'gatekeeper' under the European Union's Digital Markets Act.
This legislation is designed to curtail the influence of tech giants like Meta and includes provisions that prevent companies from merging users' personal data across their services while imposing stringent regulations.
The European Union has been at the forefront of implementing stricter regulations for major tech companies, with a primary focus on safeguarding online rights and promoting competition.
Subscription model
Under Meta's proposed subscription plan, European users can opt to pay approximately 10 euros (equivalent to $10.46) per month to access Facebook or Instagram on desktop devices without ads.
Users with multiple accounts may incur an additional charge of approximately 6 euros per account. However, for mobile device users, the subscription price could rise to around 13 euros per month.
This increase is due to commissions imposed by Apple's and Google's app stores on in-app payments, which Meta plans to absorb.
Compliance and Uncertainty
Meta has shared its subscription plan with privacy regulators in Ireland, digital competition authorities in Brussels, and European Union privacy regulators.
Whether this plan complies with EU regulations remains uncertain, and it will be subject to scrutiny by these authorities.
In response to inquiries, a Meta spokesperson emphasized the company's commitment to offering free services supported by personalized ads but noted their openness to exploring options that align with the "evolving regulatory requirements."
