Meta, the creator of virtual and augmented reality apps, is reportedly considering introducing a paid verification option for its users, similar to Twitter Blue. The move follows recent reports of companies considering layoffs in light of Twitter’s decision to cull 70% of its staff and keep the app running by offering users paid subscriptions.
According to recent findings by reverse engineering pro – Alessandro Paluzzi, there is a mention of a “paid blue badge” in the codebase of Facebook and Instagram, which are owned by Meta. While the company has not confirmed the project, it could be a way to supplement its revenue in the face of rising costs and declining ad dollars. However, offering a paid verification option would go against the original purpose of verification, which is to signify notable people or profiles within the app.
Twitter already brings in around $7 million per quarter from its Twitter Blue subscriptions, so it’s possible that Meta is considering offering checkmarks as a paid option as well. This may seem counter-intuitive, but if people are willing to pay for the implied value of recognition, it could be a source of revenue for the company.
Meta has previously stated that it won’t charge a subscription fee to access its apps, but this paid verification option would be supplemental. Users wouldn’t have to pay, but they could buy a blue checkmark if they wanted. While the idea of buying verification goes against the original purpose of the feature, it could still be a viable source of revenue for the company in these tough economic times.
At this stage, Meta has not provided any official information or confirmation of this development. However, we will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
