Meta is currently testing a new premium subscription feature on Instagram, named Instagram Plus. This initiative has been confirmed and is currently being trialed in several countries.
Details About Instagram Plus
Instagram Plus offers subscribers a collection of exclusive features, allowing for a more customized user experience. Here are some key aspects of the subscription:
- View Stories without the poster’s knowledge.
- Track the number of replays on your own Stories.
- Create unlimited audience lists for sharing Stories.
- Extend the visibility of a Story for an additional 24 hours.
- Spotlight a Story once per week for increased visibility.
- Send animated “Superlikes” on other users’ Stories.
- Quickly search for specific viewers on your Story list.
Testing Locations and Pricing
The premium features are currently being tested in Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines, though additional countries may also be included in future trials.
| Country | Price (Local Currency) | Price (USD Equivalent) |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | MX$39 | $2.20 |
| Japan | ¥319 | $2.00 |
| Philippines | PHP 65 | $1.07 |
Differentiating Features
It is important to note that Instagram Plus is separate from Meta Verified. The latter is aimed at content creators and businesses, providing features such as verification badges and protection against impersonation. In contrast, Instagram Plus is geared toward everyday users seeking enhanced functionalities.
User Reactions and Market Trends
While the new subscription model may offer additional revenue for Meta, user feedback has been mixed. Some individuals express concerns about subscription fatigue due to the increasing number of paid options in social media.
Despite this, platforms like Snapchat and X demonstrate a viable market for social media subscriptions. For instance, Snapchat+ recently surpassed 25 million subscribers, indicating a strong interest in exclusive features among users.
Meta plans to continue its testing phase for the Instagram Plus subscription before considering a wider rollout in the future.
