Meta launches paid subscription service for Facebook and Instagram in Ireland

The move follows Elon Musk launching a revamped version of Twitter's own blue tick verification service.

Meta has begun rolling out its new paid subscription service for Facebook and Instagram to Irish users. Titled Meta Verified, the service was first announced by the tech giant's CEO Mark Zuckerberg earlier this year and grants customers a blue check in exchange for a monthly fee. Zuckerberg previously stated that the subscription lets users verify their account with a government ID and will give them a blue badge along with extra impersonation protection against accounts claiming to be them and direct access to customer support. He also said that this move is about "increasing authenticity and security" across Meta's social networks.

Mark Zuckerberg

Meta first launched the subscription service in Australia and New Zealand but has now begun the process of offering it to its Irish users. It can be purchased via Facebook and Instagram for €16.99 a month on iOS and Android and for €13.99 a month via a web browser. The move follows Elon Musk launching a revamped version of Twitter's own blue tick verification service, Twitter Blue, which also allows users to get a verified profile and other benefits. However, in contrast to Twitter, Meta has said that there will be "no changes to accounts on Instagram and Facebook that are already verified based on prior requirements, including authenticity and notability."

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