If they pay a monthly fee, social media users in Europe will soon have the option to browse Facebook and Instagram without seeing any advertisements.
For 9.99 euros a month on desktop and 12.99 euros on iOS or Android devices, users in Europe who are older than 18 can subscribe to an ad-free version of the platforms beginning in November, according to a Monday announcement from Meta.
In order to comply with a ruling by the European Union’s top court that mandates it obtain consent from users before showing them ads, the company is launching the subscription. Meta’s ability to track users’ online activity and customize ads is restricted by the stringent regulations.
According to a Meta news release, users who opt out of the new subscription model technically consent to being served ads.
It said, “We believe in an ad-supported internet that enables people to access personalized goods and services, irrespective of their financial situation.” “However, we are dedicated to abiding by these changing European regulations and respect their intent and spirit.”
Users who purchase an ad-free subscription will have it applied to all accounts linked in their Accounts Center for the first few months after it launches, so changing profiles won’t interfere with the ad-free experience. Meta will charge an additional 6 euros per month for web accounts and 8 euros per month for mobile accounts after February.
According to Meta, users who opt to subscribe will not have their personal information used for advertisements, but those who choose not to participate can still use these platforms for free.
For the first few months following launch, users who purchase an ad-free subscription will have it applied to all accounts linked in their Accounts Center, meaning that switching profiles won’t disrupt the ad-free experience. After February, Meta will tack on an extra 6 euros for web accounts and 8 euros for mobile accounts each month.
Users who choose not to participate can still use these platforms for free, but Meta says those who subscribe will not have their personal information used for advertisements.
