Meta has started testing a paid membership for its Instagram. TechCrunch has reported that the new subscription is named Instagram Plus and it is said to bring additional features, account controls over the regular Instagram account. The report also highlights that the Plus subscription is currently being tested in select markets as the company explores new revenue streams outside advertising.
Features available with Instagram Premium
The subscription focuses largely on enhancing how users interact with Stories. One of the key additions is the ability to view Stories anonymously, allowing users to browse content without appearing in viewer lists. Subscribers will also be able to check how many times their own Stories have been rewatched, adding a layer of insight not available to free users.
Another change includes extended Story duration. While regular users are limited to 24 hours, premium subscribers can keep their Stories visible for up to 48 hours. Users will also gain the option to prioritise one Story per week, placing it at the front of followers’ Story trays.
Instagram Plus also introduces expanded audience controls. Users can create multiple custom audience lists beyond the existing Close Friends feature. In addition, a search tool for Story viewers is being added, making it easier to find specific names within large viewer lists. The platform is also testing interactive elements like animated “Superlikes” for Stories.
Pricing and availability
The paid plan is currently being tested in a limited number of countries, including Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines. Pricing varies across regions, with the subscription costing around $1 to $2 per month depending on the market. Meta Platforms has not confirmed a wider rollout timeline or whether pricing will change when the service expands.
How it differs from existing offerings
The new subscription is separate from Meta Verified, which focuses on verification and account protection for creators and businesses. Instagram Plus, on the other hand, is designed for everyday users seeking more privacy, control, and customization in their social media usage.
What this means for users
With Instagram Plus, Meta Platforms appears to be experimenting with a dual model where core features remain free, while advanced tools are placed behind a paywall. If expanded globally, the subscription could change how users engage with Stories and manage their presence on Instagram.
