The Irish government through the Data Protection Commission (DPC) recently imposed a hefty fine of €390 million on Meta, the parent company of Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and Threads over the ads they show to users, which are "served" under the profile, activity and websites visited.
But Meta responds in a harsh way to the extent that it puts the knife in the throat of European users as it "threatens" to make Facebook and Instagram paid! The revealing report of the Wall Street Journal states that Meta intends to bring to the market a monthly subscription for Instagram and Facebook that will cost between 10 and 16 euros/month. And what will be the benefit? Save ads on your account. But there is also Plan B, as long as the users agree to the...offer “Mr. Facebook” that they cannot refuse.
The same report also states that meta is also considering an alternative plan to offer free access to Instagram and Facebook if the user explicitly accepts the display of personalized ads. However, the said plan must first go through the approval of the competent European authorities in order to be licensed.
It is expected to present and implement its plan within the next few months, according to the WSJ. For its part, Meta wants to retain its right to offer personalized ads, as this would have an impact on its revenue.
Thus giving the option for a free ad-supported (with advertisements) access and a subscription to avoid advertisements, is a move of the type "two birds with one stone", as well as it will comply with the instructions of the E.U. but its advertising revenue will not be affected.
Source: Unboxholics.com
