Meta to test premium subscriptions on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp (techcrunch.com)

Meta has announced plans to test a new premium subscription model across its platforms—Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. This initiative will provide users access to exclusive features aimed at enhancing productivity and creativity, alongside deeper AI functionalities. Each app will offer a distinct set of subscription features while maintaining the core experiences as free. Notably, Meta plans to scale Manus, an AI agent recently acquired for $2 billion, integrating it into its products and also offering standalone subscriptions for businesses. The subscription offerings will include features such as unlimited audience lists and the ability to see who hasn't followed back on Instagram, as well as enhanced video creation tools through Vibes, Meta's AI-driven short-form video platform. This move is anticipated to generate additional revenue for Meta amidst growing competition in the subscription space, exemplified by Snapchat+'s success, which has over 16 million subscribers. However, Meta must navigate potential subscription fatigue among users as it adapts its service to appeal to a diverse audience, including everyday users, creators, and businesses while actively seeking user feedback throughout the rollout.