Meta Rolls Out Paid Subscriptions Across Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp as it Expands AI Push

Meta has begun rolling out paid subscription plans across its major platforms, Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, marking a major shift in how the company monetises its social media ecosystem.

The new subscription offerings, branded as “Plus” plans, allow users to pay a monthly fee for additional features across the apps while the core services remain free for all users.

Under the new structure, Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus are priced at around $3.99 per month, while WhatsApp Plus costs about $2.99 monthly. These plans introduce enhanced tools such as improved profile customisation, extended story features, and additional messaging and engagement options.

Alongside the social media subscriptions, Meta is also expanding into paid artificial intelligence services through its Meta AI platform. The company is introducing tiered AI subscriptions designed for heavy users, offering higher usage limits, more advanced image and video generation tools, and improved performance features.

The AI subscription plans are expected to range from basic monthly packages to premium tiers priced significantly higher for power users and businesses requiring more intensive capabilities.

Meta says the move is aimed at diversifying its revenue beyond advertising, especially as it continues to invest heavily in AI infrastructure and development.

Industry observers note that while the platforms will remain free at their core, the new model signals a gradual shift toward a “freemium” ecosystem where advanced features are locked behind paid tiers.

The rollout is also seen as part of Meta’s broader strategy to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing AI market while creating new revenue streams from its billions of global users.