Netflix ends basic plans and migrates subscribers to the ad-supported version

A Netflix announced the definitive end of the ad-free Basic plansurprising many subscribers who will be automatically migrated to the Standard plan with ads. The change will begin to be implemented on December 25th and aims to reduce costs, offering the new plan for R$20.90 per month, while the old one cost R$25.90.

However, this 30% saving is accompanied by more advertising during films and series, something that has been generating a lot of dissatisfaction among subscribers. In the next paragraphs I bring more details about this news.

Also read
After closing studio, Netflix bets on generative AI to speed up game production
Netflix miniseries about Ayrton Senna gets trailer; look

Improvements to the Standard plan with Ads

The company justified the migration by mentioning improvements in the quality of the service, such as increasing the video resolution to Full HD (1080p), in addition to the possibility of simultaneous use on two screens. For those who prefer an ad-free experience, only the Standard and Premium plans remain, which cost R$44.90 and R$59.90 per month, respectively.

Netflix’s decision is part of a broader strategy to recover financially, following a drop in subscribers and difficulties faced in 2022, including the closure of its services in Russia. This strategy includes the insertion of advertising, something that the company previously avoided. Since the introduction of ad-supported plans, Netflix has seen significant share appreciation, demonstrating the positive effect of the new financial approach.

On social media, the reaction of subscribers is mostly negative. Many complain that they did not ask for these “improvements” and that the presence of advertisements harms the experience of watching at will, without interruptions. For part of the public, the change goes against Netflix’s original proposal, which was to provide an alternative to closed TV channels, known for their expensive packages and full of advertising.

Competition also adopts advertisements

In addition to Netflix, Globoplay also recently adopted an ad-supported plan, reflecting a trend in the streaming market in Brazil. Globoplay introduced a standard plan with ads for R$14.90 per month, reinforcing the idea that advertising is becoming an inevitable part of ensuring competitive prices on streaming services.

For users who want to cancel their subscriptions, Netflix recommends accessing payment settings through the app or website. Anyone who purchased a subscription through providers such as Claro, TIM and Vivo will need to contact these companies directly to cancel.