• New notifications push Instagram users toward paid features
• Some users reject the perks, calling them unnecessary

Several Instagram users have noticed new notifications indicating a test of a subscription service called “Instagram Plus,” which offers subscribers a set of exclusive features within the app.

Reports from users on Reddit suggest these messages appear even for those on the free version, hinting that the parent company, Meta, is running a limited trial in certain markets before any wider official launch.

The subscription reportedly provides exclusive tools such as directing stories to specific audiences, seeing who re-watches stories, searching within the viewer list, previewing stories before posting, extending story display time, sending “super hearts,” highlighting stories, and other features that give users more control over their content.

Users can try the subscription free for one month before committing to the paid plan, according to screenshots shared on social media platforms.

Despite these new perks, many users expressed dissatisfaction, describing some features as unnecessary or overblown.

They also noted a current trend online of moving previously free services behind paid subscriptions.

This move comes as social media companies seek to diversify revenue sources, given the limits of relying solely on advertising.