"Meta" Tests Paid Subscriptions and Bets on Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Its Platforms
February 2, 2026231 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
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Meta has announced plans to test a paid subscription system on its main platforms, Facebook, **Instagram**, and **WhatsApp**, in the coming months, in a move that reflects a strategic shift in the company's business model and diversifies its revenue sources.
Exclusive Benefits for Selected Subscribers
According to the company, the experience will initially be available to a limited group of users, offering paid packages focused on exclusive features supported by artificial intelligence, and new tools aimed at enhancing productivity and creativity in content creation and account management.
The Core Platforms Will Remain Free
Meta confirmed that the basic use of its platforms will remain free for all users, while additional service levels will be offered for those wishing to access advanced capabilities. The company has not yet announced subscription prices or the final list of paid features.
Leaks Reveal Potential Features
Meanwhile, leaks have discussed potential features that may be offered to Instagram subscribers, including the ability to create unlimited follow lists, knowing which accounts do not follow the user back, and the option to view stories without notifying their owners.
Advanced Artificial Intelligence Tools
The paid packages, according to circulating information, will include artificial intelligence tools such as "Vibes" dedicated to creating short videos, along with a smart assistant named "Manus" capable of supporting users in research tasks and automatically creating content, helping to save time and effort.
Freemium Model and Service Independence
This step is part of a broader trend for the company towards a freemium model, as it has already begun transitioning the "Vibes" tool—launched for free last September—into a service that combines free use with paid features. Meta confirmed that these subscriptions will be entirely separate from the "Meta Verified" service for identity verification.
Diversifying Revenue and Market Assessment
The announcement comes months after Meta revealed its intention to offer an ad-free usage option for a monthly fee, a clear indication of the company's efforts to reduce its reliance on advertising as a primary source of income.
Expert and Analyst Opinions
Experts believe that the success of this experiment will depend on how convincing the users find the value of the offered features, especially amid competition from established subscription models like YouTube Premium. Analysts also point out that relying solely on artificial intelligence may not be enough to attract a wide range of subscribers without providing clear and tangible practical benefits.
