Meta to test paid subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook. WhatsApp

​​​​​​​By Fatma Zehra Solmaz

ISTANBUL (AA) - Meta is preparing to test paid subscription plans for users on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp in the coming months as part of its efforts to expand paid services, the BBC reported Tuesday.

The subscriptions are expected to offer additional features, including enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

Users would continue to have free access to the platforms’ core services.

Meta also wants to pilot paid access to certain features, including its Vibes video generation application, which the company said enables users to transform ideas into visuals using new AI-powered creation tools.

Meta introduced Vibes in September with the latest update to its Meta AI app.

The company also plans to incorporate technology from Manus, a China-founded AI firm it agreed to acquire in December for a reported $2 billion (£1.46 billion), TechCrunch reported.

Meta will keep offering standalone Manus subscriptions to businesses.

The company said the deal would enhance its AI by providing “agents” that handle tasks like trip planning or presentations.

“Manus's exceptional talent will join Meta's team to deliver general-purpose agents across our consumer and business products, including Meta AI,” it said.

Now based in Singapore, Manus claims to offer a “truly autonomous” AI agent that can plan and complete tasks independently.

In January, Beijing said it would review Meta’s acquisition for potential violations of Chinese tech export or security rules.

Following the September announcement, UK Facebook and Instagram users can opt to pay for a subscription or continue using the apps for free with personalized ads. In the EU, the service costs €5.99 ($7.16) per month.