Instagram has introduced a paywall for specific AI-powered photo editing tools. Once users reach a certain usage limit, the application prompts them to subscribe to the Meta One Core service to continue accessing advanced AI effects. Those who choose not to subscribe must wait until the following day to regain access to these features.
The Meta One subscription was introduced in May and costs $7.99 per month. The service provides various AI benefits and personalization options, such as previewing Instagram Stories without opening them, custom app icons, and interface adjustments for Facebook and WhatsApp. This follows the 2023 launch of Meta Verified, which offers a blue verification badge for a monthly fee.
By restricting AI editing tools, Meta is positioning itself to compete more directly with established photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, VSCO, and Tezza. While the company is expanding its paid feature set, it remains unclear if users will shift from traditional free filters to the new subscription-based AI tools.
