Netflix Experimenting with Cheaper Mobile-Only Subscriptions

Netflix experimenting with cheaper, mobile-only subscriptions

Here's what we know.

Audra Schroeder

Streaming

Published Nov 14, 2018 Updated May 21, 2021, 1:40 am CDT

Netflix is testing mobile-only subscriptions that will be much cheaper than its standard monthly pricing plans.

That testing is reportedly only happening in Asia, as Netflix tries to gauge interest in the platform and build a subscriber base in emerging markets. CEO Reed Hastings said last week that right now it is just an experiment, and a report from Malaysia’s The Star confirms that the testing has rolled out. The mobile-only plan costs RM17 a month (which equals about $4) and only allows for standard-definition viewing, not high definition.

Netflix is investing heavily in original content from Asia, and last week it announced 17 new originals from India, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Taiwan. A Netflix rep told TechCrunch that the Malaysia trial is happening and that the price plan is being tested out “in a few countries” but did not elaborate.

We’ve reached out to Netflix for comment on whether this cheaper tier will make it to other markets.

H/T Tech Crunch

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*First Published: Nov 14, 2018, 11:37 am CST

Audra Schroeder

Audra Schroeder is the Daily Dot’s senior entertainment writer, and she focuses on streaming, comedy, and music. Her work has previously appeared in the Austin Chronicle, the Dallas Observer, NPR, ESPN, Bitch, and the Village Voice. She is based in Austin, Texas.