Meta has announced the launch of new paid subscriptions for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, offering users additional features. The monthly subscription fees are $3.99 for Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus, and $2.99 for WhatsApp Plus. Additionally, Meta AI chatbot offers paid packages at $7.99 for the basic plan and $19.99 for the premium plan.
This initiative comes amid Meta’s decision to reduce its workforce by approximately 10% to optimize expenses and channel investments into artificial intelligence, which is projected to reach $145 billion by 2026, including the construction of data centers and the acquisition of chips. Following the release of Meta’s quarterly report, the company’s stock declined by over 5% in after-hours trading. However, by May 27, after the subscription announcement, stock prices rose 3.7%.
Naomi Gleit, Head of Product at Meta, noted that these subscriptions aim to provide users with enhanced tools for self-expression and communication, as well as premium features for businesses and content creators. Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus subscribers will have access to extended Stories analytics, the ability to create unlimited audience lists, and an option to prolong Stories visibility beyond 24 hours. Additional functionalities include previewing Stories before publication, posting updates without displaying them in news feeds, animated reactions, customizable app icons, and exclusive font styles.
WhatsApp Plus features include customizable ringtones, new themes, the ability to pin more chats, additional sticker sets, and enhanced contact list settings.
Looking ahead, Meta plans to expand subscription testing for Meta AI users. While the basic chatbot remains free, paid plans offer higher usage limits and features, such as video and image generation.
The purpose of these paid subscriptions is to diversify the company’s revenue. By the end of Q1 2026, “other income,” including subscriptions and paid messaging on WhatsApp, totaled $885 million, compared to $55 billion in advertising revenue.
Previously, Meta launched Meta Verified, a service for content creators and businesses that offers verification and support at monthly rates ranging from $14.99 to $499.99. Testing for Instagram Plus began in March 2026 in select countries, providing additional tools for publishing Stories.