Facebook-owner Meta to trial premium subscriptions

(Sharecast News) - Meta Platforms is to trial subscription services for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram, it was confirmed on Tuesday. The new models will give paid users access to more features as well as expanded artificial intelligence capabilities.

Confirming an initial report by TechCrunch, a spokesperson for the US tech giant said the model would allow paid users to "unlock more productivity and creativity".

The company would now "listen" to Meta's user community and gather feedback before rolling out the subscriptions in the coming months, they added. Core services, however, are expected to remain free to use.

According to CNBC, the subscriptions will also be separate from Meta Verified. A paid product launched two years ago, Meta Verified gives content creators and businesses a verified badge, tech support and search optimisation, among other features.

Facebook-owner Meta has long been looking to bolster AI across its platforms, and recently announced plans to buy Singapore-based AI start-up Manus in a $2bn deal. TechCrunch said Meta intended to use Manus in the subscription plans.

Meta is due to announce fourth-quarter earnings after markets close on Wednesday.