Netflix might offer free content but with commercials
Netflix might be shaking things up with a free, ad-supported option in some countries. This means you could watch Netflix shows and movies for free, but you’d see commercials in between. Reports suggest this might target European and Asian audiences first, with India’s inclusion yet to be confirmed. If Netflix brings this to India, you could potentially enjoy their content without a subscription, but with ads.
Netflix is mulling a free tier with ads, but it’s still early days. They tried a limited free service in Kenya before, but it didn’t last. This new idea seems similar, offering a smaller selection of shows in established markets like Japan and Germany, instead of starting in developing countries.
Why the change? Competition is heating up with Disney+, Amazon, and HBO Max all vying for viewers. To stay on top, Netflix has been cracking down on password sharing and raising prices. This free tier, if launched, could be another way to attract budget-conscious viewers and make money from ads, just like they did with their ad-supported plan in 2022.
Even with their efforts, Netflix’s subscriber growth has stalled in some established markets. This free tier with ads seems like a double win: attracting cost-conscious viewers who might not subscribe otherwise, and making money through commercials. But don’t expect this in the US yet – Netflix seems to be focusing on markets where they haven’t reached everyone.
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News of a free, ad-supported Netflix tier is buzzing, and if it lands in India, it could be a game-changer. Many viewers are budget-conscious and free with ads already existing with players like Disney+ Hotstar and Zee5. However, Netflix is known for keeping its prices competitive in India, with plans starting at Rs 149 for mobile and reaching Rs 649 for premium subscriptions.
