What is Instagram's new subscription service?
Written by Ryan on Thu Jan 20 2022
- Social Media

Instagram has now announced that it will be trialling a subscription-based feature on the app.
Although only a handful of creators in the US have been chosen for the trial phase Instagram has said “we have plans to expand access to more creators over the next few months.”
If you are curious about how the subscription feature will work you can follow and subscribe to these creators taking part in the trial:
@alanchikinchow, @sedona._, @alizakelly, @kelseylynncook, @elliottnorris, @jordanchiles, @jackjerry, @bunnymichael, @donalleniii and @lonnieiiv.
These creators will be able to set a monthly price of their choice, unlock a “subscribe” button on their profile and offer exclusive content to their subscribers.
What you get for your money
Subscriber Lives
This feature will work in the same way as a traditional Instagram Live does but with the benefit of a smaller viewership - meaning your favourite creator is more likely to see your live messages.
Subscriber Stories
This will be similar to the “close friend” stories but only for subscribers. When subscribed to a creator you will be able to see exclusive 24-hour content.
Subscriber Badges
Subscribers will be able to stand out to their favourite creators with badges next to their names any time they comment or message the creator.
This kind of paywall content is appealing to users because it feels like they are building a more personal relationship with their favourite creators.
But that doesn't mean that this new feature is only for creators - This opens opportunities for businesses too.
If you sell a digital service or course, you can monetise your content on Instagram directly. Instead of promoting on Instagram and then providing the content in another space, you can have everything under one roof.
What are your thoughts on this latest feature?