Meta is reportedly facing scrutiny from Chinese authorities over its recent $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus, a move that could signal a deeper strategic pivot for the social media giant. The South China Morning Post, citing sources familiar with the matter, indicated that Beijing is reviewing the deal for potential violations related to technology control, a significant development given China’s increasing assertiveness in regulating its burgeoning AI sector.
This regulatory review coincides with Meta’s impending launch of new subscription models across its flagship platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. These proposed subscriptions aim to “unlock more productivity and creativity,” offering paid users enhanced features and expanded artificial intelligence capabilities. A Meta spokesperson confirmed the plans, underscoring a strategic shift towards monetizing its AI investments.
The integration of Manus, a Singapore-based AI agent developer with roots in China, into these subscription tiers is a key component of Meta’s strategy. The acquisition, finalized in December for an estimated $2 billion, brings a suite of general AI agents under Meta’s umbrella, potentially empowering users with more sophisticated AI tools directly within the platforms they use daily.
This move suggests Meta is seeking to recoup its substantial investments in AI talent and acquisitions. Unlike its open-sourced Llama large language models, which have been freely available, these new subscription plans represent a departure, mirroring the paid offerings from industry leaders like OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic. This strategy could create a new revenue stream, balancing the cost of innovation with the need for sustained growth.
Beyond enhanced AI functionalities, Meta’s subscription packages may also include full access to “Vibes,” its AI-powered short-form video creation tool. Launched in 2025, Vibes currently offers basic AI video generation and remixing capabilities. A subscription would likely provide enhanced features and potentially higher-quality outputs, moving beyond the current free tier. This represents a clear monetization path for a product that has already demonstrated user engagement.
It is important to note that these new subscription plans will be distinct from “Meta Verified,” a service introduced in 2023. Meta Verified offers a blue checkmark, direct support, impersonation protection, and enhanced visibility for content creators and businesses. The new AI-centric subscriptions appear designed to appeal to a broader user base seeking advanced tools and features.
As Meta prepares to roll out these subscription services, the company has emphasized its commitment to engaging with its user community and incorporating feedback. The success of this strategy will likely depend on balancing the value proposition for paid users with the continued appeal of its free offerings, all while navigating an increasingly complex global regulatory landscape. The outcome of the Chinese government’s review of the Manus acquisition will also be a critical factor to watch.
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