Meta Platforms Inc., the corporate entity behind Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, is reportedly preparing to introduce ad-free editions of Facebook and Instagram tailored for users in European Union (EU) countries.
According to the report, EU users would need to pay approximately $10.49 (10 euros) per month for a desktop Facebook or Instagram account, with an additional cost of about 6 euros for each linked account. On mobile devices, the price for a single account would rise to around 13 euros due to commissions charged by Apple’s and Google’s app stores.
This move comes in the wake of a 390 million euro fine imposed on Meta earlier this year by Ireland’s Data Privacy Commissioner, which restricted their use of the “contract” legal basis for delivering ads based on user online activity. In response, Meta pledged to seek EU user consent before allowing businesses to target advertising, in line with evolving regulatory requirements.
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Meta is now working closely with European regulators to introduce this ad-free plan, referred to as Subscription No Ads (SNA), in the coming months. Meta emphasizes its commitment to free services supported by personalized ads but acknowledges the need to adapt to evolving regulations.
As of now, there has been no response from Meta, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission, or the European Commission to requests for comments regarding this development. While the New York Times initially reported Meta’s consideration of paid ad-free versions for EU users, specific pricing details were not provided.
This initiative marks Meta’s effort to address privacy concerns and comply with stringent EU regulations while providing users with an ad-free alternative at a monthly subscription cost.
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