Has the moment finally arrived? Is Netflix adding ads?
What was once a myth has become a reality, and our screen time will soon be (briefly) interrupted while streaming true crime docs and teen movies.
Though it sounds like a burden, rest assured that your movie marathons aren't going to be completely disrupted. Allow us to fill you in on what's going on.
Is Netflix adding ads?
Yes, Netflix will be adding ads.
The company revealed on October 13 that it will release an ad-supported plan beginning November 3 for $6.99 per month for those in the US, Canada, Australia, Brazil, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Spain and the UK. Though it is largely similar to the streamer's Basic plan ($9.99 per month) and includes most of the same content, the main difference is that this offer will include four to five minutes of commercials per hour.
For those who are already pleased with their accommodations, note that current plans and members will not be impacted. Think about it in a positive way: times are tough, and if you need to be more financially conservative, this is a potentially good way to start saving without sacrificing.
We must admit, this news did come as a surprise, considering a 2019 statement from the company insisted that ads were not in the cards.
"We believe we will have a more valuable business in the long term by staying out of competing for ad revenue and instead entirely focusing on competing for viewer satisfaction," part of the letter read.
Things have changed three years later, and now the streamer insists "advertisers [will] reach the right audience — and ensure our ads are more relevant for consumers."
Regardless of ads—or no ads for those who are sticking with their OG subscription service—nothing is getting in the way of us and that Bling Empire binge. (Nice try, though.)
