Meta to consider subscription fees for Facebook and Instagram

Luke Meredith

Technology giant Meta, parent company of both Facebook and Instagram, has declared the possibility of introducing subscription fees in the UK for ad-free versions of its social media platforms.

This news comes in the wake of the company agreeing a settlement in a major privacy case regarding its use of personalised ads for its users.

Facebook user Tanya O’Carroll launched a lawsuit against Meta in 2022, accusing the company of breaching UK data laws by refusing to comply with her demands to cease the collection and use of her data in targeted adverts. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) supported O’Carroll’s stance, potentially setting a precedent for similar claims against Meta.

In response, and while disagreeing with the ICO’s verdict, Meta suggested it may introduce a subscription service for its UK users in order to access ad-free versions of Facebook and Instagram. The firm already offers such a service to EU users.
A spokesperson for the company said:

“Facebook and Instagram cost a significant amount of money to build and maintain, and these services are free for British consumers because of personalised advertising.”

Around 98% of Meta’s overall revenue comes from advertising. Targeted ads are designed to provide content for users based on their interests and online activity, but have come under significant scrutiny and been branded “surveillance ads” by critics.

With or without ads, creating an engaging presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram should be a major factor in your business’ marketing strategy. If you’re struggling for content ideas, why not check out our FREE content calendar today?

About
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Luke Meredith

Content Editor at Engage Web

At home in both the digital sector and the world of communications, Luke thrives on deadlines and has held roles in healthcare, retail and digital marketing, gaining a sound knowledge of a wide range of sectors. He’s a massive swot as well, holding a first-class degree in BA Communication and Media, and now uses his writing skills and keen editorial eye in his role as Content Editor here. Luke helps to oversee our clients’ content requirements, while also looking after a pool of freelance writers across three continents.