Meta Launches Paid Subscription Trials and Invests in AI to Enhance Platforms

Meta has announced plans to trial a paid subscription system across its major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, in the coming months. This initiative reflects a strategic shift in the company's business model and aims to diversify its revenue streams.

Exclusive Benefits for Selected Subscribers

According to the company, the trial will initially be available to a limited group of users, featuring paid plans that focus on exclusive functionalities supported by artificial intelligence, as well as new tools designed to enhance productivity and creativity in content creation and account management.

Main Platforms to Remain Free

Meta confirmed that the basic usage of its platforms will remain free for all users, while additional service levels will be offered for those seeking advanced features. The company has yet to announce subscription pricing or the final list of paid features.

Potential Subscriber Benefits Leaked

Additionally, leaks have suggested potential benefits for Instagram subscribers, including unlimited follower lists, the ability to see which accounts do not follow them back, and the option to view stories without notifying their owners.

Advanced AI Tools Included

The paid plans are expected to include AI tools such as "Vibes," which focuses on short video creation, and an intelligent assistant named "Manus" that can assist users with research and content creation tasks automatically, thereby saving time and effort.

Freemium Model and Service Autonomy

This initiative aligns with a broader trend towards a freemium model, as the company has already begun to transform the "Vibes" tool—launched for free last September—into a service that combines free usage with paid features. Meta has confirmed that these subscriptions will be entirely separate from the "Meta Verified" service aimed at identity verification.

Diversifying Revenue and Market Evaluation

The announcement comes after months in which Meta revealed its intention to offer an ad-free option for a monthly subscription, clearly indicating the company's desire to reduce its reliance on advertising as a primary revenue source.

Expert and Analyst Opinions

Experts suggest that the success of this trial will depend on the company's ability to convince users of the value of the offered features, especially in the face of established subscription models like YouTube Premium. Analysts also emphasize that relying solely on artificial intelligence may not be sufficient to attract a broad subscriber base without offering clear and tangible practical benefits.