Meta Contemplates Ad-Free Subscriptions, Targeting Indian Market

Meta Platform, the corporate parent of social media behemoths Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is now debating the implementation of subscription programs internally. The company is thinking about launching an ad-free membership option for the Indian market by 2024 in the midst of this. The action follows Meta’s goal to monetize its platforms on a global scale. Following discussions of establishing a similar subscription structure in the European Union to comply with strict privacy requirements, it is a calculated strategic move. Although these debates are still in their early phases, the report suggests that this strategy may be adopted soon.

Global monetization strategy

According to the article, these internal deliberations have been held to examine global monetization methods for Meta, with an emphasis on India. The organization wants to abide by the just-passed Digital Personal Data Privacy (DPDP) Act. Meta is actively having a thorough discussion about how to best ensure that all data protection laws are followed. It is investigating the most efficient ways to launch a free-for-trial subscription service that complies with data standards. The source said a paid, ad-free membership option will start rolling out for Indian users in the middle or toward the end of 2024. Currently, the EU is testing the plan.

Read More: Meta to Offer Ad-Free Subscription Plans For European Users

Meta’s Compliance with Regulatory Changes in the EU

In the EU, Meta attempted to roll out an ad-free membership service for Facebook and Instagram last week. Users have the option to not agree to the site using their personal information for targeted ads. Hence, they can opt for a $14 monthly subscription fee to use an ad-free version of Instagram on mobile devices.

In addition, Meta intends to start charging $17 per month for desktop versions of Facebook and Instagram. Notably, adding a subscription option signals a major change in Meta’s business plan. The internet giant recently changed how it makes money off its platform after receiving a heavy fine for violating EU privacy laws on the transfer of user-targeted ad data.

Here’s what they said

As reported by Mint, a Meta spokesperson said,

While the firm is striving to comply with the newly enacted Digital Personal Data Privacy (DPDP) Act, there will be intensified discussions on the optimal ways to ensure full compliance with data protection regulations. A pilot for a paid, ad-free subscription option for users in India, following a trial in the EU, is likely to be rolled out in mid- or late-2024.

Read More: Meta and Discovery+ Adjust Ad-Free Subscription Plans: Changes Ahead!