Instagram Plus: Meta Tests a New Premium Subscription

Instagram seems to be taking a page out of Snapchat’s playbook. Meta is currently testing a brand-new subscription service called "Instagram Plus," aimed at power users who want a bit more control and data over their social media presence. Spotted by users in the Philippines and Mexico, this new tier offers a suite of exclusive features that focus heavily on how we interact with Stories.

According to leaks and screenshots shared by social media consultant Matt Navarra, Instagram Plus isn’t just about a blue checkmark—it’s about functionality. One of the most talked-about features is the ability to extend Stories beyond the standard 24-hour limit. If you’ve ever posted something that you felt deserved a little more time in the spotlight without moving it to a permanent Highlight, this could be your solution. Additionally, subscribers might get access to "Super Hearts" for reactions and the ability to see who has rewatched their Stories—a feature that is sure to stir up some curiosity (and maybe a little drama).

Perhaps the most controversial addition is a "preview" mode. This would allow Instagram Plus members to peek at someone else’s Story without appearing in the viewer list. It’s essentially a built-in "ghost mode" for the curious. Meta confirmed the test to Engadget, noting that they are trying to understand what premium features users find most valuable. Other perks include creating multiple custom audiences for Stories and advanced search tools for your viewer list.

What’s particularly interesting is the pricing. In the test markets, Instagram Plus is surprisingly affordable, costing roughly $1 to $2 USD per month. This is significantly cheaper than the standard Meta Verified subscription, suggesting that Meta is looking to capture a much broader audience of casual users rather than just creators and businesses. It looks like the era of "micro-subscriptions" for social media features is officially upon us.