Do you have dreams of seeing a blue checkmark next to your Instagram handle? You might just be in luck – there’s a new way to get Instagram verified.
You know Twitter Blue, the premium subscription service Elon Musk introduced on Twitter? Well, it looks like Zuckerberg has taken inspiration from Musk and decided to join the paid verification game.
Meta (formerly known as Facebook) recently announced a new paid subscription service called “Meta Verified”, which will allow anyone to get that infamous blue checkmark… for a price.
According to Meta, with Meta Verified, you get:
- A verified badge
- Account monitoring for protection against impersonation accounts
- Additional “exclusive features to express yourself in unique ways”
- Support services with access to a real person (*gasp*)
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- If you’ve ever had an issue on Instagram or Facebook, you know how big of a deal this is!
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How do I sign up for Meta Verified?
If you’re reading this from the USA, Australia or New Zealand, you’re in luck! But if you’re anywhere else in the world, like here in Canada, you’ll have to hang tight.
Meta Verified is currently in its testing phase and is only available for direct purchase on Instagram or Facebook in the aforementioned countries. Users can purchase monthly subscriptions for USD $14.99 on iOS and Android.
Increased reach promised and swiftly taken away
When this feature was first announced, Meta intended on increasing the visibility and reach for accounts subscribed to Meta Verified. This included being shown more prominently in search recommendations and comments.
After launching in Australia and New Zealand, Meta stated that after “some initial learnings and feedback, we’re removing increased reach as a subscription feature for now, as we gather more feedback and further evolve Meta Verified. We’re exploring elements to add to the subscription as we roll out to more places and will share more when we’re ready.”
Is Instagram verification worth it?
While this all sounds great and it may be tempting to pay for a verification badge on Instagram, it’s important to remember that Instagram verification doesn’t automatically make you a success on social media.
If you want to truly succeed on Instagram, it’s important to focus on growing your account organically by creating quality content, engaging with your followers and keeping a close eye on what the Instagram algorithm is looking for.
>> READ: How does the Instagram algorithm work in 2023?
Let’s be real here – we all know that the Instagram algorithm is a fickle mistress. The algorithm is constantly evolving and it can be hard to rely on for growing your account.
One day, your posts are getting hundreds of likes and comments, and the next day, it’s buried in the depths of your followers’ feeds. That’s why it’s important to boost your posts (strategically) in order to get the most engagement possible. If you’re looking to increase your reach and ensure that your content is seen by the right people, at the right time, it’s time to start boosting.
>> READ: Should you boost Instagram posts?
So while Meta Verified is a shiny new way to become Instagram verified, it isn’t the correct growth strategy for every type of account. It’s important to remember that Instagram verification doesn’t equal instant success and account growth.
What’s our take? Focus on creating engaging content, forging authentic connections with your audience and paying attention to what type of content the Instagram algorithm is prioritizing.
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