Meta has sparked debate by launching a limited test that restricts the number of external links users can share on Facebook without a paid subscription. Under this trial, some users in the UK and US have been notified that they are limited to just two link-posts per month, unless they pay a monthly fee starting at £9.99.
Meta describes the move as a test to see if increased link-sharing volume adds "additional value" for subscribers. Industry experts, including Matt Navarra, suggest this is a clear shift toward monetizing basic content distribution and traffic strategy, effectively placing a "price tag" on the ability to redirect users to other websites.
The test specifically targets users in "Professional Mode" and those managing Facebook Pages, which are primary tools for creators and businesses.
This move mirrors recent changes at Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter), where verification and visibility are increasingly tied to paid tiers. Meta’s shift follows its rollout of "Meta Verified," which already bundles security and support features behind a paywall.
Analysts warn that this move signals a "brutal reality" for digital businesses. It reinforces the risk of relying solely on third-party platforms for growth, as Meta prioritizes internal monetization over being a free "traffic engine" for external websites.
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