Meta launches paid subscriptions, starts charging for AI features directly

Meta is changing how it sells products, moving AI from free tools to paid subscriptions to make money beyond ads. The new plans cover social apps, AI computing power, and professional tools for users worldwide.

For social apps, Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus cost $3.99 per month, offering features like story view stats and custom icons. WhatsApp Plus costs $2.99 per month, focusing on themes, ringtones, and chat customization. These plans don't replace Meta Verified.

For AI, Meta is charging for the first time with Meta One Plus at $7.99 per month and Meta One Premium at $19.99 per month. These give users more computing power for longer text, faster image and video generation, and complex tasks. Testing starts next month in Singapore, Guatemala, and Bolivia.

For creators and businesses, Meta One Essential costs $14.99 per month and Meta One Advanced costs $49.99 per month, offering verified badges, impersonation protection, and better post visibility. Investors liked the move, pushing Meta's stock up nearly 4%.