In my family, we all share the Netflix passwords. There is an agreement that my parents fork over the monthly fee among my family, and everyone gets their own profile. Unfortunately, it sounds like the era of Netflix password sharing may be coming to an end.
Why Netflix is starting to crack down on password sharing https://t.co/u08S0xXPDj pic.twitter.com/WMmhrGGUqO
— The Verge (@verge) March 17, 2022
Netflix: “Get Your Own Account!”
Netflix will roll out a pilot program during which they will charge an extra fee for people who share accounts but live in different households.
According to Netflix Director of Product Innovation Chengyi Long, people sharing accounts is having an adverse effect:
“As a result, accounts are being shared between households — impacting our ability to invest in great new TV and films for our members.”
But don’t worry, the change is only happening in Peru, Costa Rica, and Chile for now.
The price change for Netflix account sharing equates to an extra $3 a month in US dollars.
Netflix is also adding an option where users can switch their shared profiles over to a new account while retaining their lists and favorites.
Some people are pointing out the problem with this change. It mainly adversely affects families who have kids away at college or who do not live in the same household.
so @netflix is talking about ending password sharing, but do they not recognize that not all families live together. college kids exist and so do divorced families. if the person holding the account is paying you money every month, mind your business or lose business ??♀️
— sam ?? #StandWithUkraine (@V0UGHT) March 17, 2022
Related: Netflix Stock Continues To Tank, And Here’s Why
Netflix Rates Are Going Up
The password clampdown comes as Netflix announced their most recent price hike.
Streaming plans increased by $1.50 a month for US customers. A “standard” Netflix plan now costs $15.50 a month, up from $14.
Is Netflix Still Worth The Price Hike?
Netflix churns out A LOT of content. New shows and new movies are debuting every week. And with Netflix jumping into the blockbuster and Oscar Game, it makes sense that they would want to up the ante a little bit.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the films and shows headed to Netflix US in March — including Shrek 1 & 2! pic.twitter.com/iSjqSYxzxN
— Netflix (@netflix) February 23, 2022
But, are you going to cancel your membership? Probably not.
That’s the beauty and trap of “subscription” services. You put it on your card, and you don’t pay attention as Netflix takes out a payment month after month and year after year.
Other Streaming Services
In the old days, you would have to buy cable and get saddled with many BS channels you’d never watch. Why did I always have BYU TV and 30 home shopping channels?
But now you can pick what you want based on your tastes. While Hulu, Disney+, HBOMax, Peacock, Paramount+, and Hulu all essentially offer the same service and types of movies, there are a few specialty channels that might be worth your money, or at least a month-long trial.
- Shudder: if you love horror movies, this is your destination. This service has plenty of horror classics, new films, and pretty much every corny B-movie bloodfest from the 80s you want to watch with friends.
- Acorn TV & BritBox: For all your BritTV fans, Acorn is for you if you want to watch classic British crime shows. BritBox is for a more comprehensive array of British programming, including Doctor Who.
Are there too many streaming services? Do you share your Netflix password? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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