Amid all the controversy related to WhatsApp’s privacy-related lawsuit, Meta is planning to test out its new subscription model for its social media platforms, like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. According to a report by TechCrunch, Meta says this subscription model will give people access to exclusive features of its different platforms. Additionally, the company says this subscription model will help in “unlocking more productivity and creativity, along with expanded AI capabilities”.
Moreover, Meta is also planning to introduce the concept of a premium social media experience. In the coming months of 2026, Meta says that it will offer more premium experiences on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. As part of the premium package, this will include access to special features and more control over how people share and connect, while keeping the core experience free.
However, the company will initially test out a variety of subscription features and bundles before making it a standard service model. The Zuckerberg-led firm will offer these individual app subscriptions with a distinct set of exclusive features for each platform. Hence, Instagram could have special features for its premium members, whereas WhatsApp may offer perks of a different kind.
Meta to use Manus to tackle Google, OpenAI
Meta has also revealed plans to significantly scale Manus, an AI agent it acquired for a reported $2 billion, by folding it into upcoming subscription offerings. The move signals the company’s broader push to monetise artificial intelligence across its ecosystem while expanding premium features for users, creators, and businesses.
The company is adopting a dual strategy for Manus AI. On one hand, the AI agent will be integrated directly into Meta’s products, while on the other, it will continue to be sold as a standalone subscription for businesses. Early signs of this integration are already emerging. Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi has shared evidence suggesting Meta is testing a Manus AI shortcut within Instagram, hinting at deeper AI functionality coming to the platform.
AI features to go ‘freemium’
Alongside Manus, Meta plans to test subscriptions for other AI-powered features, including Vibes video generation. Vibes is a short-form AI video creation and remixing tool built into the Meta AI app. It has been free since its launch last year, but under the new model, users would receive limited free access, with paid subscriptions unlocking additional video creation opportunities each month.
Can Meta’s subscription model tackle user fatigue?
While additional subscriptions from these announcements could boost Meta’s revenue, it all depends on individuals and whether they are willing to accept this subscription model. Rival Snap Inc’s Snapchat had a runaway success with its Snapchat+, which now has over 16 million subscribers, showing the model can work. It all depends on Meta as to how it will offer compelling features to convince users to pay.
