May 4th 2024.
Netflix has announced some significant changes to their subscription plans, and it's causing quite a stir among their customers. Many outraged viewers are considering cancelling their memberships due to a sudden update to the basic package, which will now include advertisements. A recent mass email to subscribers explained that the basic, ad-free subscription will no longer be available and all users will be automatically enrolled in the lowest tier, which includes ads. This means that beloved shows like Baby Reindeer and Liam Neeson's crime drama will now have interruptions from ads during viewing.
The change was initially announced in July 2023, when Netflix introduced a new pricing system that allowed viewers to opt out of ads by paying a slightly higher subscription fee. However, this option will no longer be available under the new system. Viewers will now have to endure more ads in order to enjoy their favorite shows. The basic subscription without ads, currently priced at £7.99, will now be replaced with a £4.99 package, which is a cheaper option for viewers. To soften the blow, Netflix also announced that the video quality for the basic plan will be upgraded to HD.
This change is set to take effect on June 4 in the UK and Canada. It's estimated that Netflix will generate $1billion in advertising revenue this year, which is a significant increase from previous years. This change is clearly a financial decision for the streaming giant. The email also informed subscribers that they have the option to upgrade to the standard subscription for £10.99 a month, which allows for multiple devices, or the premium subscription for £17.99 a month, which includes Ultra HD and four devices.
Many subscribers have expressed their disappointment and frustration with Netflix's decision to include ads in the basic plan. Some have even taken to social media to voice their opinions and announce their plans to cancel their subscriptions. One user tweeted, "Dumb move because I'll just cancel any service that starts overcharging or forces ads." Another user shared, "People don't like ads. It's why I stopped watching YouTube. It's why I cancelled Prime Video. It's why I will soon cancel Netflix. Find a better way to sell products."
The backlash has been significant, with some users already cancelling their subscriptions. One user shared, "Just cancelled my Netflix subscription for the first time since I subscribed in 2012. I got locked into a £4.99 basic plan which never rose, until this week when they've decided to add adverts to my tier."
If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, you can share it with the entertainment team at The Agency by email, phone, or by visiting their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you. In other Netflix news, Liam Neeson's latest film has been hailed as his best since Taken, and the streaming service recently released what some are calling their "worst" film of 2024, featuring milkmen, Nazis, and Hugh Grant. It's clear that Netflix is constantly making changes and facing both criticism and praise from their subscribers.
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