Days after Netflix picked Microsoft as its partner for its first ad-supported subscription plan, the streaming giant has announced it would start testing a new “add a home” feature for users who share their account password with other users in select countries. Weeks ago, the company had indicated that it would begin a crackdown on password sharing soon.
Netflix would start testing the "add a home" in countries such as in Argentina, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras in August.
"...But today’s widespread account sharing between households undermines our long term ability to invest in and improve our service. So we’ve been carefully exploring different ways for people who want to share their account to pay a bit more. In March 2022, we launched an 'add extra member' feature in Chile, Costa Rica, and Peru. From next month, we will launch an alternative 'add a home' feature in Argentina, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras," Chengyi Long, Director, Product Innovation, Netflix, said in a statement.
As part of the "add a home" feature, there would be one home per account which means each Netflix account -- whatever the plan -- would include one home where users can enjoy Netflix on any of their devices.
However, users would be able to watch content while outside the home on their tablet, laptop or mobile.'
"We value our members, and recognize that they have many entertainment choices. So we’re working hard to make great TV shows and films, and to be as thoughtful as possible about how we charge for use across multiple homes. We will be notifying members in Argentina, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala by email and on Netflix," Long added.