- Meta (META) is developing a new paid subscription service that will give users a verified blue badge and other services that aren't available to free users. Those that subscribe to Meta Verified by submitting their government ID have access to a blue badge, enhanced impersonation security against other accounts, and direct customer assistance.
- Later this week, Australian and New Zealand residents will be able to directly purchase Meta Verified on Instagram or Facebook. The monthly subscription fee is $11.99 for web users and $14.99 for iOS and Android users. This aligns Facebook and Instagram with other significant social media sites like Twitter and Snap, which already offer paid membership options in an effort to provide a reliable revenue stream aside from advertising, which may be highly dependent on market conditions.
Why it matters
Elsewhere, Elon Musk just introduced Twitter Blue, a premium subscription to the service with improved features including a blue tick (formerly reserved for accounts considered noteworthy) and other advantages. Now, U.S. subscribers can post tweets with 4,000 characters or less.