Facebook has begun testing a controversial new feature that restricts how many links users can share in posts each month. Unless users subscribe to Meta Verified, they may soon face a cap on outbound content.
The Proposed Limits:
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Cap on Posts: In a test involving certain users in the US and UK, Meta notified creators that starting December 16, they would be limited to sharing links in only two organic Facebook posts per month.
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Paid Access: To bypass this limit, users must subscribe to Meta Verified. Subscriptions start at £9.99/month for individuals and range from $14.99 to $499 per month for business tiers.
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Scope: The test currently targets specific Facebook Pages and Professional Mode profiles, though Meta clarified it does not currently include major publisher Pages.
Strategic Shift: Meta confirmed this is a “limited test” to see if link-sharing adds value for verified subscribers. Social media analysts, including Matt Navarra, suggest this signals a shift where Facebook is no longer a “free traffic engine.” If a business relies on Facebook for growth, that access now effectively has a price tag.
Industry Context: Data shows that external links have been receiving less reach on Facebook since 2022. By limiting link posts, Meta encourages creators to keep users on the platform while opening a new revenue stream through subscriptions. This move highlights a broader industry trend where platforms are increasingly charging for distribution and visibility that were once free.
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