Netflix shared their future plans in an official earnings call. They will be removing options and subscription plans in all regions. Find out what this means for us users.
Netflix is phasing out its Basic subscription plan, starting with the UK and Canada in the Spring as revealed in their Q4 2023 earnings call.
This shift reflects Netflix's focus on ad-based content, as ad-supported memberships have increased by 70% quarter over quarter, now accounting for 40% of all sign-ups in supported markets.
Netflix Changes Subscription Options
As the streaming giant announces on their website, the Basic plan is no longer available for new or rejoining members. If you are currently on the Basic plan, you can remain on this plan until your plan is changed or your account is canceled.
Netflix will offer two ad-free tiers: Standard for $15.49 per month, with full HD streaming, two supported devices, and one extra member, and Premium for $22.99 per month, with Ultra HD support, the ability to stream on six devices simultaneously, and up to two extra members.
Current And New Subscription Tiers
Netflix recently raised the Standard plan's price from $9.99 to $11.99 a month for subscribers in the US, UK, and France. The increase was part of other increases, with the premium plan rising $3 to $22.99.
Basic
| Price | $6.49 |
| Streaming Quality | Full HD |
| Streaming Devices | 2 at a time |
| Download Devices | 2 |
| Ad-Free | X |
Standard
| Price | $11.49 |
| Streaming Quality | Full HD |
| Streaming Devices | 2 at a time |
| Download Devices | 2 |
| Ad-Free | ✓ |
Premium
| Price | $22.99 |
| Streaming Quality | 4K/UHD & HDR |
| Streaming Devices | 4 at a time |
| Download Devices | 6 |
| Ad-Free | ✓ |
You can check out the plans on the Netflix website.
What Changes For Netflix Users
For Netflix users, the phasing out of the Basic plan and the shift towards ad-based content mainly means these changes:
- Fewer options: With the retirement of the Basic plan, users will have fewer plan options to choose from. Instead, Netflix will offer Standard and Premium options, both of which are ad-free.
- Potential for higher costs: Depending on the plan users choose, they may end up paying more. The Standard and Premium plans are priced at $15.49 and $22.99 per month, respectively, which can be higher than the previous Basic plan at $11.99 per month.
- Increased ad-supported content: While the existing plans remain ad-free, Netflix is focusing more on ad-supported content. This means that viewers might see an increase in ad-supported shows and movies on the platform.
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In summary, Netflix users won't necessarily see ads on their existing plans, but they may have to choose from the remaining ad-free plans, which could become more expensive in the future.