Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is currently testing a new feature that may require creators to pay for link-sharing capabilities. This change is part of an initiative affecting an unspecified number of users engaged in what Meta describes as “professional mode.” According to social media consultant Matt Navarra, creators participating in the test received notifications indicating that their capacity to share links will be limited. Specifically, profiles without the Meta Verified subscription will only be allowed to share links in two organic posts per month.
A Meta spokesperson confirmed the existence of this test to Engadget, emphasizing that it aims to assess whether increasing the volume of posts with links adds significant value for Meta Verified subscribers. Currently, publishers are not impacted by this change, which is critical, considering many rely on Facebook as a platform for audience engagement and traffic generation.
The introduction of a link-sharing paywall represents a substantial shift in Meta’s strategy. Many creators and businesses heavily depend on Facebook to drive traffic to their external websites. Limiting their ability to share links could adversely affect their outreach and revenue potential. Creators have already expressed frustration over other features that are now only accessible through the Meta Verified subscription, which starts at $14.99/month.
The feedback from the creator community highlights a growing dissatisfaction with Meta’s approach to monetizing its services. As these changes unfold, it remains to be seen how they will impact the overall user experience on Facebook and the platform’s relationship with its creators.
In this evolving digital landscape, where social media platforms continually adapt to enhance monetization, Meta’s latest test could be a pivotal moment for creators who rely on link-sharing as a vital part of their content strategy.
