As the European Union threatened to limit the Meta platforms to personalise ads without the consent of users, the social media giant has decided to introduce ad-free subscription plans for Instagram and Facebook.
Possibly, the plan would charge 10 euros ($10.49) per month and could be implemented by the end of the year. There would be a choice in choosing between a free, ad-supported plan and a paid subscription. Probably, most users would go for the free, ad-supported plan, and allow Meta to continue their ad business in accordance with EU regulations.
Earlier in 2023, the Data Privacy Commissioner of Ireland fined Meta 390 million euros and stated that Meta platforms are not allowed to use a contract legal basis to send users ads. The social media company maintained a stance in which they stated that in order to address evolving regulatory requirements in the region they planned to ask users for their consent before allowing businesses to target ads.
Meta added that though they believe in free services supported by personalized ads, they are exploring options to comply with evolving regulatory requirements.