Would you pay to promote Facebook posts?

Facebook is testing a system that lets users pay to promote their posts, reports the BBC.

The social network wants to see if people are willing to part with cash to ensure their information is more visible to friends.

The ‘pay to promote’ system is being trialled in New Zealand, with charges ranging from around 25p to £1.25.

Facebook spokesperson Mia Garlick said: “We’re constantly testing new features across the site. This particular test is simply to gauge people’s interest in this method of sharing with their friends.”

However, the company refused to reveal further details about the project and if it would be rolled out in other countries.

At this early stage it is not entirely clear who the service is aimed at. It is highly unlikely Facebook will risk alienating individual users with unpopular charges.

The Verge, by comparing the feature to a new addition from Tumblr that lets users pay to promote their posts, suggests it could be used by bloggers.

Tech website Engadget commented: “Ordinarily, the degree to which a status update is streamed depends on the number of likes or comments it has, which ensures that users generally only see the juiciest gossip, but paying this little premium would cause Facebook’s algorithms to distort that in your favour. In other words, it’s money replacing popularity, or simply — sigh — life.”

Tell us what you think of the project. Would you be willing to pay to promote your posts? Let us know in the comments box below.