GoKawiilMeta revealed in January that it plans to test paid versions of Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Now, in select markets, the first of those premium services is available.
Instagram Plus includes a sneaky feature and more Meta data
Aisha Malik reports for TechCrunch that Meta is testing Instagram Plus, a paid version of the social media app, in select markets. These include the Philippines, Japan, and Mexico, with plans costing the equivalent of around $2 USD/month.
Meta tells the site that Instagram Plus includes features like viewing Story posts without the poster knowing:
Among the premium features on Instagram is the ability to view a Story without the poster seeing that you viewed it and the option to see how many people have rewatched your Story, Meta told TechCrunch in an email.
Beyond secretly viewing Stories, less creepy features include creating audience groups in addition to followers and Close Friends, extending Story posts beyond 24 hours, and searching Story viewer lists for specific accounts.
Sorry, wait, I’m being told that last feature is still creeper status. Unhealthy behavior aside, it’s possible Meta could shape Instagram Plus into something that social media managers can use for more insight into post performance.
Instagram Plus is only be tested in select markets. The feature set may change before the service arrives in the United States.