Netflix looking at completely free version it quietly tested last year – but that’s not the only change being discussed
NETFLIX has reportedly considered launching a total free version of the popular streaming service – though it wouldn’t be available to everyone.
The firm has apparently mulled over the idea as bosses look to expand its business further in some countries.
Netflix launched a cheaper ad-based plan last year in an attempt to lure viewers with tighter budgets.
The streamer, which has almost 270million subscribers, has previously tested a free membership tier in Kenya but discontinued it last year.
Now the tech giant has “discussed” the possibility of launching a free plan again in larger markets where they could make a decent margin on ads.
However, there are no plans to introduce a free option in the US where subscriber numbers are already pretty high.
Instead, bosses are thinking of a free tier in some European or Asian countries, Bloomberg reports.
But sources told the publication the idea is merely in early talks at the moment with no current plans to introduce it anywhere for now.
Netflix is eager to catch up in the ad space where it still falls behind rivals like Disney, Paramount and Amazon.
YouTube currently comes out on top in terms of video streaming platforms.
Netflix has previously hinted that it is exploring alternative tiers.
The previous basic plan without ads was scrapped at the start of the year, leaving the ad-based tier as the cheapest option.
REVAMP
It’s not the only change that has got people talking.
Netflix recently started testing a makeover for its TV app with a new and improved look.
It’s said to include bigger title cards for shows, a fresh layout and highlighted tidbits such as ‘Oscar nominated’ or ‘spent 8 weeks in the top 10’.
However, not everyone is convinced by the new look.
Some viewers say bosses have made the app “worse”.
“I want the TV app to revert,” one onlooker wrote on X.
A second person added: “Wow, they managed to make it worse.”
Another said: “My muscle memory will need to adjust.”
It’s possible the company makes even more changes – or dials back some updates that haven’t gelled well with customers.
Don't get excited about free Netflix just yet...
Analysis by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun
There are so many streaming services now – and it’s proving harder to keep them all, let alone gain new ones.
Netflix’s infamous u-turn on password sharing has paid off.
The streamer added 9.3million users in the first quarter of 2024, which took its total number of subscribers up to almost 270million.
Dabbling with a free option makes sense in Netflix’s weaker markets – which is why the US is not reportedly being considered.
Even though Europe was cited that probably would never mean countries like the UK where Netflix also has a pretty solid user base.
As was reported, these are just very early talks for now, no plans have been officially announced by Netflix.