Netflix seems desperate about finding new paying subscribers. The lowered subscription plans in India are living proof.
Even though Netflix has 74 million subscribers in the US and Canada alone, apparently it’s not enough to keep funding production of the originals.
Especially when some of them — like Marco Polo, Cloverfield Paradox, or Secret Obsession — were tremendous flops.
Netflix has been live in India for 6 years already. And it’s struggling to amass substantial followership. As of now, there are just 4.4 million subscribers — compare it to the 1+ billion Indian population to get the idea.
So, it was decided to execute a radical maneuver. Previously, streaming the platform’s shows only at the 480p resolution would cost $6.6. The new price tag charges merely $2.6, which is roughly a 60% reduction.
The Standard subscription with 720p and 2 supported devices cost $6.5 — $2 off the previous tariff. And finally, Premium — it allows Ultra HD definition, while charging $10.5 in the past — costs merely $8.5 now.
Besides, on the subcontinent, Netflix offers a “mobile-only solution” for just $1.9. That means you can gormandize Netflix shows all you want, but only from the mobile screen — streaming on smart TVs and computers is a no-no.
The rival service Hotstar — owned by Disney — leaves Netflix far behind in India. It’s possible thanks to a vast content catalog that’s unlockable after you watch an ad or two.
Plus, it has a right to stream HBO shows, as well almost has a monopoly on streaming the sports events, namely cricket matches — a hugely popular competitive sport in India.
At the same time, Mobile Partners Asia reports that India will have 89 million subscribers who agree to pay to access games, movies, and so on. Netflix’s 4.4 million users are like a drop of water in the Indian Ocean.
And do you think that Netflix could also reduce prices in the US or other countries? Let us know in the comments!
