Facebook, Instagram And WhatsApp To Test Paid Access To Premium AI Tools: Meta is preparing to test paid subscriptions across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, marking a new step in how users may access premium features on its platforms.
Meta to Test Paid Subscriptions Soon
In the coming months, a limited number of users will be invited to try out paid subscription plans. These plans will offer access to exclusive tools, including stronger AI features and options designed to help users “unlock more productivity and creativity,” as confirmed by Meta.
The company plans to experiment with different subscription models, though it has not yet shared details about pricing or which features will be placed behind paywalls. Meta has made it clear that the core experience on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp will remain free for all users.
Possible Premium Features for Instagram
According to tech leaker Alessandro Paluzzi, Instagram users could see several new perks as part of premium plans. These may include the ability to create unlimited audience lists, see which accounts do not follow them back, and view Stories anonymously without alerting the person who posted them.
While Meta has not officially confirmed these features, they give a glimpse into how paid tools could enhance user control and insights on the platform.
AI Tools to Play a Big Role
One of the highlights of the paid bundles will be Vibes, an AI-powered short-form video generator available within the Meta AI app. Since its launch in September, Vibes has been free to use, but Meta is now shifting it to a freemium model, meaning some features will require payment.
Another tool expected to be part of premium plans is Manus, an AI agent. Based on leaks, it could be built into Instagram in a way that allows it to “research, create, and build” content for users, adding a more hands-off creative option.
Separate from Meta Verified
These new paid services will be offered separately from Meta Verified, which is the existing subscription that provides a blue profile tick and access to customer support. Users will not need Meta Verified to access the upcoming premium AI features.
Convincing Users to Pay Will Be Key
The move follows Meta’s earlier announcement that users could choose to pay £3.99 per month for an ad-free experience. Now, the challenge will be convincing people that advanced AI features on social media are worth paying for.
‘YouTube offers the closest parallel,’ Mark Byrne, director of paid media at the media tech company, Brave Bison, said.
He noted that YouTube Premium clearly benefits users by removing ads.
‘Meta has suggested premium tiers could unlock access to AI tools and agents, but adoption will hinge on trust as much as capability,’ Byrne said.
‘Without clear reassurance and tangible benefits, AI alone is unlikely to drive mass subscription uptake.’
As Meta moves forward with these trials, user response will likely determine how widely these paid plans are rolled out in the future.
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