Netflix's Fastest-Growing Subscription Option Isn't What You'd Expect

Netflix has shifted from its original business model to maintain its position within the streaming wars, expanding to split-season releases, live content, sports, and even broader theatrical releases for original films like The Adventures of Cliff Booth. It began experimenting with ad-supported streamingin November 2022, but didn’t break its 15-year streak of no commercials on a whim. Advertising has been lucrative for Netflix; it now has three subscription options, and, as of last month, reports that over 60% of new subscribers are choosing its ad-supported tier. It's unsurprising that a vast majority of subscribers would opt for a cheaper option, but it’s yet another sign that streaming is starting to look a lot like traditional cable.