Meta Bets Big on Paid Social Features, Launches Premium Plans Across Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp

Bengaluru, May 28 (TNA) Meta is taking a major step toward subscription-based social media by introducing paid “Plus” memberships for Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp. Alongside these launches, the company has also started testing premium AI subscriptions aimed at users seeking advanced artificial intelligence tools and enhanced digital experiences.

The newly announced Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus plans are priced at $3.99 per month, while WhatsApp Plus will be available for $2.99 monthly. Meta says the subscriptions are designed to give users more control, personalisation, and engagement options across its platforms.

Instagram Plus includes features such as anonymous Story viewing, extended Story duration beyond 24 hours, custom profile fonts and icons, advanced audience lists, additional profile pins and the ability to spotlight one Story every week for greater reach. Users will also be able to track Story rewatches and react using exclusive “Super Heart” responses.

Facebook Plus will offer similar profile customisation tools along with audience analytics and engagement-focused features. WhatsApp Plus, meanwhile, focuses heavily on personalisation, introducing custom themes, premium stickers, extra pinned chats, personalised lists and custom ringtone support.

Meta clarified that these new subscriptions are separate from Meta Verified, the company’s existing verification service launched in 2023.