Facebook and Instagram introduce a premium ad-free subscription

Meta has announced that starting next month, Facebook and Instagram users in Europe will have the option to purchase subscriptions, allowing them to use the social networks without any advertising.

In a statement, Meta explained, "To adhere to evolving European regulations, we are introducing a new subscription option in the EU, EEA (European Economic Area), and Switzerland."

This decision comes in response to a series of stringent European Union rules aimed at regulating major tech companies, including the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). These rules pose a risk to Meta's substantial advertising revenue as they aim to limit the use of users' data without their consent.

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Meta disclosed that European users can subscribe for a fee of 9.99 euros ($10.50) per month on the web or 12.99 euros on mobile devices using iOS and Android systems. Users who opt for this subscription will continue to enjoy the platforms without advertising, and their data will not be used for ad targeting, according to Meta.

This subscription option will be available exclusively to individuals aged 18 and above. Meta believes that this move will address the concerns of EU regulators regarding its data collection practices and ad targeting.

These rules are set to take effect in March 2024. Tech giants like Meta are also required to adhere to stricter advertising regulations under another law known as the Digital Services Act, which mandates increased oversight of online content.

Meta expressed its commitment to respecting the evolving European regulations and their purpose, emphasizing its dedication to compliance.