Netflix is making changes to its subscription plans, and this time it’s affecting the Basic tier. Subscribers on the Basic plan are receiving prompts from Netflix, informing them that their subscriptions will end unless they upgrade to a new plan. The Basic plan, which was the cheapest ad-free option, has been discontinued.
This isn’t the first time Netflix has made changes to its subscription offerings. Last year, the Basic tier was removed in the UK and Canada, and then in the US. However, existing subscribers were allowed to keep their Basic plan as long as they didn’t cancel or let it lapse. The Basic plan provided a low-cost ad-free experience for users who only used the service on one device at a time.
Unfortunately for those still on the grandfathered Basic plan, the prices were increased in October, including for them. Despite the price hike, the Basic plan still remained the cheapest ad-free option at $11.99 per month.
Earlier this year, Netflix announced its plans to end the Basic plan for grandfathered subscribers, starting with those in the UK and Canada. Now it seems that Netflix is ready to completely phase out the Basic subscription.
So, what are the alternatives for users who want to save money? The ad-supported version of Netflix, which costs $6.99 per month, is an option. However, for those who prefer an ad-free experience, the lowest-priced tier is now the Standard plan at $15.49 per month.
This change in Netflix’s subscription plans may disappoint some users who appreciated the affordability of the Basic plan. It’s possible that Netflix is shifting its focus towards higher-priced plans in order to generate more revenue. As streaming services continue to grow in popularity, it’s not uncommon for companies to adjust their pricing and offerings to meet the evolving needs and preferences of their subscribers.
Overall, Netflix’s decision to discontinue the Basic plan highlights the company’s ongoing efforts to adapt to the changing streaming landscape and maximize its profitability. While this may be disappointing for some users, it’s important to remember that streaming services are businesses that need to balance their offerings with their financial goals.
