Meta is rolling out a bold new option for UK users sick of ads invading their Facebook and Instagram feeds. From soon, users Overover 18 can pay £2.99 a month on web or £3.99 on iOS and Android to get an ad-free social media experience. But don’t worry, the platforms will remain free with ads for those who prefer the way/”>Old Wayold way.
Why the Price Difference?
Meta says the higher cost on mobile apps is due to Apple and Google’s hefty fees on in-app purchases. But once you subscribe, Meta guarantees your personal data won’t be used to target you with ads. mark-england/scotland-england/”>scotland/”>scotland/”>Mark Zuckerberg’s company insists this is a fair price, calling it “one of the lowest in the market.”
Free Access Stays, Ads Stay for Now
If you want to keep enjoying Facebook and Instagram with ads, that option isn’t going anywhere. Meta is offering a clear choice: pay for peace and quiet or keep using the free, personalised feeds.
“I’m so sick of ads being in the middle of every TikTok and Facebook video… I miss the ad free world!” tweeted one frustrated user recently.
Privacy Battle Sparks Subscription Push
This move follows a headline-grabbing privacy case. UK campaigner Tanya O’Carroll sued Meta over Facebook’s use of her personal data for ads. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) backed her, forcing Meta to stop targeting her with adverts. The ICO praised Meta’s new subscription plan, calling it a positive step towards user choice and privacy.
“We welcome Meta’s decision to ask users for consent to use their personal information for ads,” said an ICO spokesperson. “People must be given meaningful transparency and choice.”
Meta said: “This change responds to recent ICO guidance. It lets people choose if their data is used for personalised ads while Keepingkeeping free access to the platforms.”
What’s Next?
The ICO will keep a close eye on how the ad-free subscriptions roll out, making sure users can freely give consent and aren’t misled. Meta also insists UK users get a better Dealdeal than EU users, calling the UK’s approach Moremore sensible.
Ad-free UK Facebook and Instagram could soon be a reality—but will enough users pay up to make it worthwhile? Essex
Originally published on UKNIP