Telegraph to launch UK metered paywall

The Telegraph is to launch a metered paywall for its website in the UK, giving users a free article allowance of up to 20 articles a month.

In a release the company, which introduced a metered model for international traffic in November last year, said users will be able to choose from two digital subscription deals, offering the same payment options as were announced in November.

The first package gives access to the website and smartphone apps for £1.99 a month, or £20 a year, while the second, "the full digital pack", provides the same plus the additional offering of the tablet editions of the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, for £9.99 a month, or £99 a year.

Users will be able to enjoy a month for free before subscription will be necessary, and the release adds that "existing print and digital subscribers will enjoy unlimited access to the website as part of their current packages at no extra cost".

There were no further details on a specific launch date available at the time of writing. Update: According to a post online by the Telegraph, the changes come into effect as of today (16 March).

The release said that the decision to build on the existing international paywall, described as a "New York Times style 'meter'", was prompted by a "successful" first few months of its operation. According to the Telegraph, 90 per cent of those who signed-up for the free trial have subscribed.

In a statement editor Tony Gallagher added that the Telegraph Media Group plans "to unveil a number of compelling digital products for our loyal subscribers in the months ahead."

Just last week the Washington Post also announced it would launch a metered paywall for its website, also offering 20 articles a month before subscription.

When the New York Times launched its paywall almost two years ago it started with an allowance of 20 free articles, but reduced this to 10 articles later on.

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