Meta-run Facebook and Instagram are now offering European Union (EU) users the chance to pay to use ad-free versions of their sites for a £9 monthly subscription fee.
As previously mooted last month, the tech firm is now set to roll out the option across the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland from as early as next month.
Meta will not offer the subscription scheme to is UK users however, following the nation’s decision to leave the both the EU and EEA after the Brexit referendum in 2016.
Due to cost €9.99 (£8.73) a month for web users and €12.99 (£11.35) a month for android and iOS, Meta users will still be able to browse Facebook and Instagram for free with ads.
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In a statement, Meta said: “We believe in an ad-supported internet, which gives people access to personalised products and services regardless of their economic status,” the company said.
“It also allows small businesses to reach potential customers, grow their business and create new markets, driving growth in the European economy. But we respect the spirit and purpose of these evolving European regulations, and are committed to complying with them.”
It continued: “The subscription for no ads will be available for people aged 18 and up, and we’re continuing to explore how to provide teens with a useful and responsible ad experience given this evolving regulatory landscape.”
The new scheme has been seen by some as a way for Meta to force EU users into accepting personalised advertising – as users will need to consent to the latter in order to continue using Facebook and Instagram for free.
