Meta (formerly Facebook) corporate headquarters is seen in Menlo Park, California on November 9, 2022.
Sources from Meta have recently revealed the company's latest move to offer European users an ad-free experience on Instagram and Facebook.
The company will officially introduce subscription services for these popular social media platforms.
This development comes in response to the growing demand for an ad-free experience and greater privacy control.
Meta's New Offering
Starting at just 10 euros per month, European users of Instagram and Facebook can subscribe to an ad-free experience, Reuters tells us in a report.
This subscription will also include enhanced privacy features, signaling Meta's commitment to addressing users' concerns regarding data privacy and targeted advertising.
According to sources, the price for a single account on mobile devices would rise to around 13 euros since Meta would add in fees imposed by Apple's and Google's app stores.
Ad-Free Experience
One of the most significant benefits of this subscription service is the removal of all ads from the user experience.
For many, this will be a welcome change as it eliminates the interruptions caused by sponsored posts and advertisements in their feeds. However, some could see the price tag attached to it as too much.
This feature is expected to be a game-changer for users who value an uninterrupted browsing experience.
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Enhanced Privacy Control
The subscription will also offer enhanced privacy control features, allowing users to customize their data-sharing preferences.
This includes the option to limit data collection and ad targeting. With increasing concerns about data privacy, these features will likely be highly appreciated by users who want more control over their personal information.
Europe-First Rollout
Meta has chosen Europe as the launch market for this new subscription service, with plans to expand it to other regions in the future.
The decision to start in Europe likely stems from the region's stringent data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which prioritizes user privacy.
Due to the transfer of user data from Europe to the United States, violating European privacy regulations, the EU slapped Meta with a massive $1.3 billion fine in May.
What's Next?
While the initial focus is on Europe, Meta has indicated that it plans to roll out similar subscription offerings in other regions, depending on the success of this European launch.
This move aligns with Meta's vision to give users more choice and control over their social media experiences.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated, "We are committed to offering a range of options that cater to our diverse user base. Our goal is to provide a seamless and personalized experience that respects individual preferences."
According to a report by WSJ, the compliance of Meta's new plan with EU laws remains uncertain. Regulators in Ireland and Brussels are yet to determine whether the plan meets existing regulations.
There is a possibility that they may demand Meta to provide more affordable or even free versions of their services with no personalized ads.
Stay posted here at Tech Times.
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