Starting next spring, users in the European Union (EU) will have the option to go ad-free on Facebook and Instagram by subscribing to Meta’s paid “no ads” version of the platforms. This move comes as Meta responds to new EU privacy regulations, offering users the choice between targeted ads or a subscription-based ad-free experience, which is priced at €9.99 per month when purchased on the web or €12.99 per month through app stores.
Meta has started prompting users to sign up for the ad-free version, and the subscription fee currently covers all linked accounts. However, after March 1st, subscribers will face an additional fee (€6 per month if purchased directly or €8 through app stores) for any extra linked profiles in their Meta Account Center. The ad-free service is available only to users aged 18 and above.
The prompt from Meta explains that this new choice is being introduced because “laws are changing in your region.” Adult users in countries where this feature is available will be asked to either subscribe or continue using the platforms for free, acknowledging that the free option entails personalized ads and the use of user information for advertising purposes.