Meta is bringing its “pay or consent” ad model to the UK after months of wrangling with regulators over the controversial policy. The update will force Instagram and Facebook users to pick between being served up personalized ads or shelling out for monthly subscriptions to ad-free versions.
Subscriptions start at £2.99 a month, around $4, for users logging in over the web, Meta said. Android and iOS users face steeper charges of £3.99 a month, around $5.33. Meta blames this on “the fees that Apple and Google charge.”
It’s an all or nothing approach, with users forced to either subscribe on all accounts or none. Each additional account garners another fee of either £2 or £3 a month.
Meta was forced to walk back a similar model in Europe after regulators there slammed the “binary choice” it offered users. Meta warned users they faced a “materially worse” experience as a result. The fees were significantly more expensive there than in the UK, starting at €9.99 per month when purchased on the web or €12.99 per month if purchased through Google’s or Apple’s app stores, around $11.67 and $15.17, respectively.
It’s interesting to see how Meta is adapting its advertising model in response to regulatory challenges. This move could have significant implications for users and businesses alike in the UK. Looking forward to seeing how it unfolds!
Absolutely, it’s a significant shift for Meta. This model could really change how users interact with ads on Instagram, especially if it influences their willingness to engage with content. It’ll be fascinating to see how users respond to this approach over time.
You’re right, it’s a big change! It’ll be interesting to see how users respond to this new model and whether it affects their engagement with ads. It might also push other platforms to reconsider their advertising strategies.
Absolutely, user reactions will definitely shape its success. It’ll be fascinating to see if this model encourages more users to engage with ads or if it leads to a decline in overall user activity on the platform.
You’re right! User feedback will play a crucial role in how this model is received. It’s also interesting to consider how this approach might influence advertising strategies in the long run, pushing brands to be more creative in their offerings.