Meta Plus subscriptions have been introduced globally for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, offering users additional features in exchange for a monthly fee.
The announcement marks a strategic move by Meta to expand paid services across its platforms while providing enhanced tools for highly active users and content creators.
In a related update, WhatsApp unveiled a new Channel Status feature that enables temporary updates for channel administrators.
Features included in Meta Plus subscriptions
According to Meta, subscribers who pay a few dollars per month will gain access to added benefits such as profile customization, enhanced reactions, story insights and other advanced functionalities.
Naomi Gleit, Head of Product at Meta, said the Plus plans will give users greater capacity, more complex usage options and expanded creative opportunities for businesses and creators.
Meta One brand for subscription services
The company confirmed that the subscription tests will be launched under the “Meta One” brand, which will serve as the umbrella for future subscription offerings.
Earlier this year, Meta announced plans to introduce paid subscription services, with initial trials beginning in the spring.
Platform-specific subscription focus
Meta Plus subscriptions differ depending on the application:
• Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus focus primarily on social interaction and engagement tools
• WhatsApp Plus emphasizes personalization and enhanced messaging experiences
Meta clarified that these new plans do not replace the existing Meta Verified service, which focuses on identity verification, protection against impersonation and additional account support.
Expanding revenue beyond advertising
The launch of Meta Plus subscriptions is also aimed at diversifying revenue streams beyond advertising.
With billions of users worldwide and limited growth opportunities as platforms reach global saturation, subscriptions offer an additional source of income from highly engaged users.
Meta stated it does not currently plan to discontinue older plans, although future adjustments remain possible.
WhatsApp introduces Channel Status feature
Separately, WhatsApp officially launched a new feature called Channel Status in the latest beta version for iOS, numbered 26.16.10.70.
According to WABetaInfo, the feature allows channel administrators to share temporary updates, including photos, videos, text and layouts, which automatically disappear after 24 hours.
Interactive options for followers
The updates appear in the daily Status section under the Updates tab, enabling followers to view them without opening the channel directly.
The feature also offers interactive options such as:
• Liking temporary updates
• Resharing them as personal status posts
Meta said the update is designed to help channel owners share quick announcements and urgent alerts without overcrowding the main channel feed.
The feature has begun rolling out gradually to Android and iOS users and is expected to become available globally in the coming weeks.
Conclusion:
The introduction of Meta Plus subscriptions and WhatsApp’s Channel Status feature reflects Meta’s broader strategy to enhance user experience while expanding subscription-based revenue models. As the company tests services under the Meta One brand, paid plans are becoming an increasingly important part of its digital ecosystem.
