Netflix Announces Price Hikes and New Features Amid Subscriber Surge
Netflix has announced adjustments to its subscription pricing in the U.S., marking the first-ever increase for its ad-supported plan and raising costs across all tiers.
The ad-supported plan, introduced in 2022 at $7 per month, will now cost $8 monthly. Meanwhile, the standard ad-free tier has seen a $3 increase, bringing its price to $18 per month. The premium plan has also been adjusted, rising by $2 to $25 per month.
Currently, these changes are specific to the U.S., with no confirmation if the price surge will extend to other markets, such as Pakistan.
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Record-Breaking Subscriber Growth
Despite the price hikes, Netflix has achieved its most significant subscriber growth to date. In the last quarter of 2024, the platform added 18.9 million new users—doubling analysts’ predictions—and reached a milestone of 300 million global subscribers.
This remarkable growth is credited to Netflix’s foray into live content, which has proven to be a massive success. Events such as the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match and the platform’s first-ever NFL Christmas game broadcast set new viewership records. Additionally, the release of original programming like Squid Game season two attracted 68 million viewers within its first week.
New Features and Policies
Netflix has introduced new subscription features alongside the pricing updates. These include the “Extra Member With Ads” option, allowing ad-supported users to add external members for $8 per month. Ad-free subscribers can add extra members for $9 monthly, providing greater flexibility.
The surge in subscribers is also attributed to Netflix’s crackdown on password sharing, which has encouraged many to create their own accounts.
Netflix’s strategic focus on live content, innovative features, and policies is driving its evolution as a leading global streaming platform.
