Instagram is building out its monetization capabilities with a new subscription feature that allows creators to earn recurring monthly income.
Starting today, Instagram feeds are rolling out in a limited beta for a small number of creators.
Followers can opt in via the “Subscribe” button on the creator’s profile.
Those eligible for the new subscription feature have full control over the monthly price.
Paying a monthly fee gives subscribers the following benefits:
- Subscriber Life: Creators can only broadcast exclusive live broadcasts to subscribers.
- Subscriber Stories: Creators can publish stories only for subscribers.
- subscriber badge: When subscribers leave a comment, a badge will appear next to their name, letting creators and other users know they’re a big fan.
In the announcement, the company stated:
“With Instagram subscriptions, creators can connect on a deeper level with their most active followers and increase their recurring monthly income by giving subscribers access to exclusive content and perks, all within the on the same platform.”
Who is eligible to subscribe to Instagram?
Currently, during the beta period, Instagram feeds are only available to a limited number of U.S. creators.
Instagram plans to expand access to more creators in the coming months.
The following creators are part of the Instagram subscription test group:
- @alanchikinchow: First through TikTok’s notorious content creators.
- @sedona._: Basketball player currently playing for the Oregon Ducks.
- @alizakelly: Celebrity astrologer and best-selling author.
- @kelseylynncook: Actors, dancers and models.
- @elliottnorris: Create videos focusing on sustainable recipes, plastic-free and other eco-related content.
- @jordanchiles: Olympic gymnastics silver medalist.
- @jackjerry: Instagram model and member of the NCAA gymnastics team.
- @bunnymichael: Hosts the “XO Higher Self” podcast, which focuses on spirituality.
- @donalleniii: Create creative visual content, such as Snapchat’s AR Lenses.
- @lonnieiiv: Internet star known for his creative TikTok sketches.
Like Facebook subscriptions, Instagram won’t charge creators until 2023 at the earliest.
In addition to expanding Instagram feeds to more creators in the future, the company hopes to provide companion tools that will allow creators to connect directly with audiences outside the platform.
source: Instagram Business Blog
Featured image: Screenshot from business.instagram.com/blog, January 2022.
