Meta Platforms is set to introduce a new subscription plan for Facebook and Instagram users in the United Kingdom.
The paid option removes ads and limits data tracking, giving users greater control over their privacy. This move comes amid rising privacy concerns and tighter regulations.
How the Ad-Free Subscription Works
UK users can subscribe to an ad-free experience for £2.99 ($3.99) per month on the web or £3.99 on iOS and Android.
Subscribers will not see advertisements, and Meta will not use their personal information for targeted ads. This represents a major shift toward stronger privacy protections on social media.
Why Meta Is Making This Change
The UK’s data protection authority has raised concerns about how social platforms use user data.
Similar rules in the European Union have already forced Meta to adjust its advertising model, paving the way for this UK rollout.
Balancing Privacy and Revenue
Advertising generated almost all of Meta’s $164.5 billion revenue in 2024. The company now faces the challenge of complying with privacy laws while keeping its free, ad-supported platforms available.
Offering a paid, ad-free version gives users a clear choice between privacy and free access.
Part of a Wider Tech Trend
Apple, Google, and other tech giants are also restricting data collection in response to global privacy regulations.
Meta’s subscription option reflects a growing industry shift to balance user privacy with ad-based profits.
What It Means for UK Users in 2025
People in the UK can now choose between using Facebook and Instagram for free with ads or paying for a private, ad-free experience.
As privacy rules tighten, this change could redefine how social media platforms operate and earn revenue in the future.
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