Meta Reportedly Tests "Instagram Plus," Offers Anonymous Story Viewing & New Paid Perks

Earlier this year, reports came in suggesting that Meta was planning to introduce paid features across Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Well, the company appears to have quietly begun testing a new paid tier on Instagram, according to a report by TechCrunch.

Meta has started testing paid Instagram Plus subscription in different regions

The new plan, reportedly called Instagram Plus, focuses on small but meaningful upgrades. One standout feature lets users view Stories anonymously, a shift that could change how people engage with posts. Subscribers can also track how many times their own Stories are rewatched. That adds a new layer of insight, especially for users who care about engagement trends.

There is also more control over Story sharing. Instead of relying only on Close Friends, users can create multiple custom audience lists. That means more control over who sees what, without overthinking each post. Meanwhile, other perks focuses on visibility and interaction. Stories can be extended for an extra 24 hours, while a weekly “spotlight” option pushes posts to the front.

Pricing and availability

Moving on, features like animated Superlikes and searchable viewer lists are also there. Pricing appears to vary by region, with user-shared screenshots suggesting a monthly cost of MX$39 in Mexico (about $2.20), ¥319 in Japan (around $2), and PHP 65 in the Philippines (roughly $1.07).

That being said, early reactions seem mixed. Some users have already pushed back online, questioning whether these features justify another monthly fee. It’s unclear how far Instagram Plus will expand, but Meta says testing will continue.