Meta to Trial Premium Subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp

• Subscriptions will unlock 'more productivity and creativity' through expanded AI capabilities, including access to Manus AI agents from Meta's $2 billion December acquisition
• Premium features include full access to Vibes, Meta's AI-powered short-form video creation tool, while basic versions remain free
• The new subscription plans are separate from Meta Verified (launched 2023) and represent a shift from Meta's open-source Llama models to paid AI services similar to OpenAI and Google

Meta to Trial Premium Subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp

Key Development: Meta Platforms is preparing to launch premium subscription plans across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp in the coming months, according to reports verified by CNBC and confirmed by a Meta spokesperson.

Subscription Features:

• Enhanced AI capabilities and expanded features for paid users
• Integration of Manus AI agents, following Meta's $2 billion acquisition of the Singapore-based AI startup in December
• Full access to Vibes, Meta's AI-powered short-form video creation platform (launched in 2025), with a basic free tier and premium paid options
• Subscriptions will be separate from Meta Verified, the verification service introduced in 2023

Strategic Context:

Meta's subscription push represents a significant shift in monetization strategy, seeking returns on substantial AI investments including talent acquisition and the $2 billion Manus purchase. Unlike competitors OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic who charge for AI services, Meta has kept its Llama large language models open-source and free.

Market Implications:

This move signals Meta's intention to diversify revenue streams beyond advertising while competing in the AI services market. The Chinese government is reportedly reviewing the Manus acquisition for potential technology control violations, according to the Financial Times, which could impact implementation.

Timeline: Rollout expected in coming months, with Meta planning to gather user feedback during the testing phase.

The subscription model could represent a major evolution in Meta's business strategy, potentially creating new revenue streams from its 3+ billion global users while leveraging recent AI investments.