Meta, one of the largest social media companies in the world, has made a remarkable decision regarding Instagram and Facebook. According to this decision, face filters and AR effects from third parties on Instagram and Facebook, along with the tools used to create them, will be retired. According to Meta’s announcement, the new period will apply from January 14, 2025.

When you want to share on Instagram or Facebook, you will come across numerous pre-prepared filters and effects. Meta will pull the plug on this service in line with the decision taken. From next year, users will only use AR effects with face filters made by Meta.

Filters and AR effects copied from Snapchat

Third-party face filters and AR effects on Instagram were introduced in 2017. The company copied the feature from Snapchat, which was very popular at the time. At the moment, the company only allows its own filters.

However, no explanation was given as to why this decision was made. After all, AR effects with face filters provided a very good experience for millions of Instagram users. Only the filters and effects prepared by Meta will reduce the options for users.