Netflix may launch free ad-supported subscription in select markets
Netflix may introduce a free plan that will allow users to consume its content without having to pay for it, but with ads, according to a report. The video streaming platform is reportedly considering introducing a free plan in select markets around the world. If it goes ahead, this new tier would sit below the ad-supported subscription plan that is currently the most affordable way to watch Netflix, but only in select regions.
Netflix’s free ad-supported subscription
According to Bloomberg reportThe video streaming platform has talked about offering a free subscription in Asian and European markets, where other free TV networks also have free subscriptions. The plan is speculated to offer Netflix content for free, but with ads. The report, citing people familiar with the company’s plans, suggested that the move was aimed at growing the video streaming platform’s audience.
If true, this wouldn’t be the first time that Netflix has offered free video streaming. In 2021, a free plan was introduced for Android smartphones in Kenya. However, it was discontinued last year. While it may be targeting users in Asia and Europe, the report suggests that Netflix has no plans to introduce this free plan in the US. Notably, it already offers an ad-supported plan, which is the most affordable way to watch Netflix, at $6.99 (roughly Rs. 600) per month.
According to Amy Reinhard, President of Advertising at Netflix, the ad-based plan currently has 40 million active users worldwide, up from 5 million users last year. The company also claims that 40 percent of all signups come from the ad-based plan, in countries where it is available.
In addition to winning over more viewers, the rumored free plan could also help bring in more advertising for the video streaming platform, the report said. If true, it would go hand-in-hand with the company’s plans for an in-house ad tech platform that Netflix said will launch in late 2025. According to Netflix, this would open up new ways for advertisers to “buy new, gain new insights, and measure impact new ways.”
