UK Users Can Now Pay A Subscription To Opt Out Of Meta Ads

Meta's New Subscription Model in the UK

Meta has introduced an option for UK users to either continue using its platforms with ads for free or pay a monthly subscription to remove ads. This initiative will be rolled out to users aged 18 and above over the next few weeks. Users will receive notifications about this "Subscription for No Ads" option on Facebook and Instagram.

£2.99 per month via web subscription £3.99 per month via iOS or Android devices Additional accounts: £2 more on the web or £3 on mobile

The higher mobile pricing accounts for additional fees charged by Apple and Google through their app stores.

Subscribers will stop seeing ads within 24 hours of subscribing. Their data will not be used for ad targeting; however, they will continue to have access to posts from creators and brands. Non-subscribers will retain full access to features such as Stories and Reels but will continue to view ads.

Meta's decision follows discussions with the Information Commissioner’s Office regarding user consent for ads. The new model complies with UK regulatory guidance, providing users with a choice regarding their data usage.

Users opting for the free version can still manage ad preferences through Meta’s Ad Preferences settings. Businesses will continue to reach users through ads on the free version, with Meta stating that each £1 spent on advertising generates £3.82 in revenue for UK businesses. Subscribers will not see ads, though branded content will still appear.

The subscription model is also available to European users, with pricing set at €5.99 per month on the web and €7.99 on iOS or Android. Additional accounts cost €4 or €5. This rollout aligns with varying privacy regulations across Europe and the UK.

Based on reporting by techround.co.uk.