The top streaming service has started trialling ads and users are not happy
One of the things we love about Netflix is the fact there are no ads. But that just changed and subscribers are threatening to leave in droves. The streaming giant who draws in millions of users every day says the ads are a service to its subscribers; “We are testing whether surfacing recommendations between episodes helps members discover stories they will enjoy faster.” If the public backlash is anything to go by, subscribers prefer to browse.
But it’s unlikely that will stop Netflix carrying on. “A couple of years ago, we introduced video previews to the Tv experience, because we saw that it significantly cut the time members spend browsing and helped them find something they would enjoy watching even faster.” In other words, they’re just trying to help us watch more TV.
But will the ads, which are promotional trailers for their own shows, put people off rather than encourage them to keep viewing? Some may it’s a tactic to introduce a new subscription tier that costs more. Hulu did this in 2015 and now offer a No Commercials plan for $11.99/month and a Limited Commercials Plan for $7.99/month.
In response to users complaining about the ads, Netflix responded in a statement saying; “It is important to note that a member is able to skip a video preview at any time if they are not interested.”
But viewers are still not happy, leaving comments on social media such as “Hey Netflix, if you run ads I can guarantee I’m going to cancel my subscription,” and “@Netflix, just so you know, the first time you insert any kind of ads (even for your own shows), I’m canceling my sub immediately. #completely serious.” Let’s hope subscribers don’t choose to skip the service altogether.
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