Netflix users are reporting warnings that their subscriptions may soon be terminated. This issue seems to primarily affect users on the “Basic” plan, particularly in Canada and the UK.
These users are being prompted to switch to either a cheaper ad-supported plan or a more expensive ad-free option.
During a results call, Netflix stated it would begin removing the plan in Canada and the UK in the second quarter, with plans to expand this change to other regions.
Netflix had already stopped offering the Basic plan to new customers last year. Its pricing page now indicates the plan has been “discontinued” and suggests users can change their plan at any time. However, existing subscribers were allowed to keep the Basic plan without a clear end date.
Warnings sent to current Basic plan users include a note stating that “the last day to watch Netflix is July 31.” Users are advised to “choose a new plan to keep watching.”
The Basic plan was significantly cheaper than other ad-free options. In the US, for example, it cost $11.99, compared to $15.49 for the standard ad-free tier, $22.99 for the 4K option, and $6.99 for the ad-supported plan. Prices are similar worldwide.
Netflix is one of several companies incorporating ads into their services after years of ad-free offerings. Disney+ also has a cheaper ad-supported tier, and Amazon Prime Video recently introduced ads, offering users the option to pay extra to remove them.
