The processing of personal data of social network users has always been a sensitive and controversial issue, which has raised numerous criticisms and concerns from associations, institutions and citizens. The GDPR, the European Data Protection Regulation, has imposed new rules and limits on companies collecting and using user information for commercial or profiling purposes. In particular, the GDPR requires the explicit and informed consent of users, respect for their rights of access, rectification, erasure and portability of data, and the possibility to object to processing or withdraw consent at any time .
Paid versions of Facebook and Instagram have been introduced as of 6 November 2023. Regarding the subscription costs, prices were confirmed in compliance with what had previously been announced in recent weeks. In an official statement, Meta said the following:
“Depending on where you make your purchase, the subscription will cost 9,99 € per month if done via the website, while on iOS and Android it will cost 12,99 € per month. Regardless of the purchase channel chosen, the subscription will be applied to all accounts linked to Facebook and Instagram in each user’s account centre. […] In addition, as of 1 March 2024, an additional tax of 6 € per month for additional web accounts and 8 € per month on iOS and Android, for each account listed in the user’s account centre’.
In this context, Meta, the new company that controls Facebook and Instagram, has decided to offer users the possibility of subscribing to a paid version of the social network, without advertising and without selling personal data. The subscription costs EUR 12.99 per month and covers both accounts. It is a choice designed to meet the needs and preferences of users, who can decide whether to continue using the free version, accepting the conditions imposed by the GDPR, or switch to the paid version, which offers greater protection and control over their data. This option also presents a challenge for Meta, which has to find new ways to generate revenue and maintain its dominant position in the social media market.
Summary of the video
- Facebook and Instagram subscription offers: Meta, the new company that controls Facebook and Instagram, is offering users the possibility of subscribing to a paid version of the social network, without advertising and without selling personal data. The subscription costs EUR 12.99 per month and covers both accounts.
- Reasons for subscription: Meta introduced this option following new European privacy laws, which limit the way companies can use user information for advertisements. Users can choose to continue using the free version, accepting advertisements and the sale of data, or switch to the paid version, which offers more protection and control.
- Meta Verified: Meta also offers another type of subscription, called Meta Verified, aimed at creators and companies who want to obtain account verification, proactive protection, direct support and other exclusive benefits on Facebook and Instagram. This subscription is different from the one offered for ordinary users and has an additional cost.
- Registration and cancellation: To subscribe to the paid versions of Facebook and Instagram, simply click on the ‘Subscribe’ button that appears on the app screens and choose the payment method. The system will automatically calculate how many accounts are linked to the access code and synchronise the registration. You can cancel your subscription at any time or cancel directly.
References
Facebook and Instagram to pay, from when? How to continue using them for free – TAG24
