Xiaomi has unveiled the Box 5 and Box 5 Max streaming devices in China. These compact Android-based boxes deliver AI-powered features, improved connectivity, and premium audio-visual performance. The standard model costs 299 yuan ($41), while the Max version is priced at 499 yuan ($69). Pre-orders are currently open, and the first shipments will begin on May 15.

Xiaomi Box 5 Series Specifications

The Xiaomi Box 5 features a quad-core Cortex-A55 CPU and a Mali-G310 V2 GPU, paired with 2GB RAM and 32GB internal storage. The Box 5 Max upgrades the experience with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, allowing for better multitasking and more local content storage.

Both models support 4K resolution at up to 3840 × 2160 and come with Xiaomi’s in-house AI-SR engine. This engine enhances non-4K content by sharpening textures and boosting clarity, especially for older 720p or 1080p videos.

They also support Dolby Vision and DTS:X audio formats, and can pass through 7.1.4-channel audio for immersive surround sound when connected to compatible home theater setups.

The boxes are built around a 97mm x 97.1mm chassis, just 17mm tall, and weigh under 100g, making them easy to hide behind a TV or carry while traveling.

Each model comes with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 support for stable and faster streaming, even on busy home networks. Bluetooth 5.2 enables low-latency audio streaming to wireless headphones or speakers. Physical ports include HDMI, USB 2.0, and DC power input.

Both devices run Xiaomi’s HyperOS, which doubles as a smart home dashboard when used with the Mi Home app. They integrate Xiao Ai, Xiaomi’s voice assistant, enabling voice commands for streaming, smart home control, or general queries.

The included remote supports NFC screen casting, users can simply tap their smartphone to the remote to cast content, skipping pairing menus or QR code scanning. Notifications and calls are hidden during casting to maintain privacy.

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The number and prices of digital content platforms are increasing every day. Nowadays, many of us are spending a considerable amount of money on services such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Spotify, and YouTube Premium. Moreover, it seems that this expenditure will be even higher in the coming years. This is because analysts predict that Netflix will raise streaming plan prices in 2024. Here are the details…

Analysts Expect Netflix Prices to Rise Again in 2024

According to some analyst reports, Netflix prices are expected to increase once again in 2024. If you live in a country with high inflation, like I do, this content may seem quite normal to you. However, we are not talking about countries such as Turkey, Argentina, or Venezuela; we are directly referring to North America and Europe prices.

As you may know, Netflix raised its prices in 2023, primarily in the United States and other countries. Although this move drew some user backlash, the company did not experience any significant loss. However, there are now claims that these prices will once again see an increase.

“We expect to see rate increases [from Netflix] this year,” UBS analyst John Hodulik said, pointing to the potential for a 15% revenue growth in 2024. Last October, Netflix raised the Basic plan’s price from $9.99 to $11.99 per month in the United States, alongside similar hikes in the UK and France.

Unfortunately, a price increase in these countries will affect users worldwide. Despite having a considerable user base, the company is struggling to generate profits. Therefore, it has been aiming to change the situation with such moves for some time. For instance, the account sharing restriction implemented last year is one of these strategic moves.

It is important to note, however, that this is an analyst prediction. There is still no official announcement regarding a price hike for Netflix in the U.S. or any other country. Nevertheless, predicting the next move of a billion-dollar company is not as difficult as you might think.

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Twitch, the popular live-streaming platform, has just announced a game-changing update: Affiliate streamers are now invited to join the elite Partner Program, paving the way for more creators to earn significantly higher income.

This will attract a lot of new streamers to the platform

Previously, the Twitch Partner Program was an exclusive club for the top-tier streamers, offering them a more lucrative slice of the revenue pie. But starting May 1, this privilege is being extended to Affiliates under the revamped Partner Plus Program. This shift is a huge win for smaller streamers, who often find climbing the Twitch ladder a challenging feat.

Under the new structure, Affiliates can access the higher 70/30 revenue share, previously a Partner-only benefit, by accumulating 300 Plus points – down from 350. They can also opt for a 60/40 share by maintaining 100 Plus points over three months. This means more money in the pockets of Affiliates for their hard work and dedication.

Echoing Warner Bros. Discovery’s rebranding of HBO Max to Max, Twitch is simplifying the name of its expanded program to ‘Plus Program.’ This move signifies a broader, more inclusive approach, reflecting Twitch’s evolving landscape where streamers of varying sizes can thrive equally.

The cherry on top? Twitch is axing the $100k cap on the 70/30 revenue share. This change addresses long-standing concerns among streamers about earning limits and is a clear nod to their feedback. Without this cap, top-performing Affiliates have the potential to earn just as much as their Partner counterparts, if not more.

By blurring the lines between Affiliates and Partners, Twitch is championing a more equitable platform where talent and effort, rather than just numbers, pave the path to success. For aspiring streamers, this means the dream of turning their passion into a sustainable career on Twitch just got a whole lot more attainable.

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Netflix seems to be charting a new course. The company’s recent decision to phase out its Basic plan marks a significant shift in its strategy, as revealed in its latest earnings call. The company has been grinding down hard on its cheaper plans to accommodate the rapidly inflating economy, and now, these steps are getting a bit too serious.

The Basic plan, known for its affordability at $11.99 and ad-free viewing, has been a staple for many. However, in a landscape where content consumption is evolving, Netflix is adapting. The plan, which stopped being available to new or returning users last summer, is still in use by existing subscribers. But its days are numbered, with the UK and Canada set to see it phased out first.

This change is part of a broader trend in Netflix’s approach. The company’s focus is increasingly on its ad-supported content, which has seen a surge in popularity. In fact, ad-based subscriptions have grown by 70% quarter over quarter, now making up 40% of all new Netflix sign-ups in relevant markets.

What does this mean for subscribers? Options are narrowing. Once the Basic plan is gone, the ad-free experience will be limited to the Standard and Premium tiers. The Standard plan, at $15.49 per month, offers full HD streaming and support for two devices simultaneously. The Premium tier, priced at $22.99 per month, ups the ante with Ultra HD, streaming on six devices, and additional member options.

While some may see this as a reduction in choice, it’s a strategic move by Netflix. The streaming giant is not just tweaking its subscription models; it’s also investing in exciting content. The much-anticipated Squid Game Season 2 is set to release in 2024, and a new deal gives Netflix exclusive streaming rights to WWE Raw in 2025.

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Netflix has been steadily dipping its toes into gaming. Two years after introducing Netflix Games within its existing subscription service, the company is exploring ways to turn its gaming venture into a profitable segment. This initiative, highlighted in a Wall Street Journal report, reveals the streaming giant’s internal discussions about potential revenue strategies for its gaming arm.

Netflix had 86 games on its platform before the year 2023 ended

Netflix Games has offered an ad-free gaming experience at no extra cost for all Netflix members. As of the end of 2023, the platform boasted 86 games, with an additional 90 in development. Notable additions include popular third-party titles like the GTA Trilogy and in-house creations like Oxenfree 2. Despite this impressive lineup, the service has yet to see significant engagement from Netflix’s subscriber base. A year after its launch, less than 1% of subscribers were playing games on Netflix, and this figure hasn’t shown much improvement, even with the expanded game library.

The lukewarm response hasn’t deterred Netflix from investing heavily in this venture. The company has spent around $1 billion on building its gaming business, acquiring studios like Night School Studio and collaborating with renowned developers.

To monetize its gaming platform, Netflix is considering several options. These include introducing in-app purchases, charging extra for specific games, or embedding games with ads in the new Netflix ad-supported tier. Any of these steps would represent a significant departure from the current model.

Beyond direct monetization, Netflix is also exploring innovative ways to attract gamers. For instance, code found within the Netflix app suggests the company is experimenting with TV gaming, using smartphones as controllers. Cloud gaming is another area of interest, as indicated by recent job listings.

For now, these strategies remain under discussion. Netflix’s immediate plan for the new year includes launching new games like Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit, Sonic Mania Plus, Hades, Game Dev Tycoon, a game based on the Rebel Moon film, and a title set in the Squid Game universe.

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2023 brought a notable shift in the Twitch landscape. For three years, Felix ‘xQc’ Lengyel, a Canadian streamer and former Overwatch professional, reigned as the platform’s most-watched streamer. However, this year, Kai Cenat, an emerging talent in the streaming community, dethroned xQc, marking a new era in Twitch’s history.

xQc was at the top of the list for three straight years

Kai Cenat’s rise to the top was nothing short of extraordinary. In a record-breaking streak, he not only clinched the title of Twitch’s most-watched streamer but also became the platform’s most subscribed streamer ever. His 30-day “Mafiathon” subathon in early 2023 played a pivotal role in this achievement, attracting over 300,000 subscribers at its peak and surpassing well-known streamers like Ninja and Ludwig.

Meanwhile, xQc’s transition to Twitch’s rival platform, Kick.com, might have played a role in his shift in ranking. Despite losing the top spot on Twitch, xQc’s move was financially significant, securing a whopping $100 million deal with Kick.com. This move underscores the fluidity and competitive nature of the streaming industry, where platform loyalty and audience preferences can rapidly change.

The 2023 Twitch rankings also saw Brazilian streamer Gaules and Spanish streamer Ibai claiming high spots, showcasing the global appeal and diversity of Twitch’s streaming community. Gaules, known for his Counter-Strike: Global Offensive streams, and Ibai, with his engaging content, both accumulated over 100 million hours of watch time each, demonstrating the vast reach and influence of Twitch streamers globally.

This shift at the top of Twitch’s rankings is a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of online streaming. As new talents like Kai Cenat rise to prominence, they bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to the platform, keeping the world of digital content vibrant and unpredictable.

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NASA has always been quite forward-thinking, always down to change the way we explore space. This time, however, it’s not about rocket launches or spacewalks. Instead, the agency is bringing space to our screens, for free, with the launch of its new streaming service, NASA+.

The service will apparently be completely free when it launches

Set to go live on November 8, NASA+ promises an ad-free experience packed with an exclusive look at NASA’s live shows, which have been recognized with Emmy Awards for their high production quality. Viewers will also be treated to a curated selection of original series that highlight the agency’s groundbreaking missions.

For a bit of context, other streaming platforms like Disney+ charge around $7.99 per month for their basic plan, while Curiosity Stream offers a selection of science and history documentaries for about $2.99 a month. In contrast, NASA+ is completely free and requires no subscription, giving everyone access to the wonders of space.

But the streaming service is just one part of NASA’s broader digital transformation. The agency is also overhauling its app and flagship and science websites to create a more cohesive and informative user experience. These updates are expected to align with the launch of NASA+ and further enhance access to NASA’s vast array of multimedia content.

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Twitch’s latest announcement at TwitchCon in Las Vegas has the industry buzzing, or rather, twitching. The live-streaming giant will now allowing its users to stream their content on other platforms concurrently. While the company previously loosened its guidelines on cross-streaming to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, this is a significant change that opens doors for streaming across “any service,” unless the streamer is bound by an exclusivity contract with Twitch.

This seems like a move to retain its massive streamer base

On the surface, this move appears counterintuitive for Twitch. One would think that by allowing users to stream elsewhere, Twitch is essentially eroding its own viewer base. So why make such a drastic change? It’s likely a calculated risk to retain top talent in the live-streaming space.

In recent times, some big names such as Ludwig have ditched Twitch for competitor platforms like YouTube. By allowing creators more freedom to simulcast without strings, Twitch could be offering an olive branch, especially to mid-level creators who might be contemplating making a switch due to revenue concerns.

But there’s another angle to consider: by allowing more flexible streaming options, Twitch is actually broadening its outreach. Streamers can capture audiences on different platforms and potentially lure them back to Twitch. Plus, it reflects well on the company’s willingness to adapt. In the past few months alone, Twitch has updated its policies on off-platform harassment and even experimented with machine learning for chat moderation.

However, the new policy comes with its set of regulations. The guideline that the “Twitch user experience should not be compromised” on other platforms is ambiguous and leaves room for interpretation. It remains to be seen how Twitch will enforce this and what consequences await those who cross the line.

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Netflix, the streaming giant that has fundamentally changed the way we consume entertainment, is officially shutting down its DVD rental service today, September 29, 2023. This move symbolizes more than just the end of a service; it marks the conclusion of a transformative chapter in the world of home entertainment.

Netflix has sent out 5.2 billion red envelopes to over 40 million consumers

While the company’s announcement came earlier this year, stating that dwindling demand for physical rentals made it difficult to maintain service quality, today’s closure signifies Netflix’s full transition into a digital-first entertainment provider. A journey that began in 1998, with the shipping of its first DVD—Beetlejuice—reaches its finale today. Since then, Netflix has sent out an astonishing 5.2 billion red envelopes to over 40 million customers.

Although the advent of streaming in 2007 swiftly overshadowed DVD rentals, becoming the company’s dominant service by 2009, it’s crucial to remember that it was the DVD business that set the stage. Not only did it introduce on-demand entertainment to millions, but it also provided Netflix with the revenue and customer base needed to invest in the digital future we now take for granted. With over 238 million subscribers today, Netflix has become synonymous with streaming, but its roots in the DVD world were essential to its growth.

The decline in DVD popularity isn’t just a Netflix issue. Global sales for DVDs dropped by 19% from 2021 to 2022, and even Disney stopped DVD and Blu-ray production in Australia. However, Netflix is making this transition a bit sweeter for their remaining DVD aficionados. Subscribers can keep any rentals they currently have and even order up to 10 more movies to help the company clear out its remaining stock.

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As covered before, Netflix is entering a new level of gaming experience for its members, with a step towards making games accessible on every platform where its members are enjoying content – from TVs to computers and mobile devices. Starting today, a limited beta test will be rolled out in Canada and the UK, featuring two games: Oxenfree and Molehew’s Mining Adventure.

Windows and Mac Users can use their keyboards and mice to play games

Netflix is introducing a mobile phone as a controller for playing games on TV, transforming a daily-use item into an interactive gaming tool. For those using PCs and Macs, traditional keyboard and mouse controls will suffice.

The games will be operational on a variety of devices, including Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast with Google TV, LG TVs, and Samsung Smart TVs, among others. More devices will be included in the list, showing Netflix’s intention to make gaming a better experience for its members.

The limited beta aims to not only test the game streaming technology and the innovative controller but to enhance the member experience progressively. Though the company acknowledges that they’re in the early stages of this gaming journey, the excitement is palpable. This initiative reaffirms Netflix’s commitment to cater to diverse interests, turning casual viewers into gamers.

It’s not just about watching movies anymore; it’s about engaging in interactive experiences, bringing joy to members in new ways, and offering more reasons to stay connected with the platform.

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Netflix really, really, wants to tap into the gaming sector. It’s quite apparent, because the company just unveiled a new app, the “Netflix Game Controller” for iOS. This app lets you turn your phone or tablet into a game controller for your TV. You pair your device with the TV and then play games from Netflix, all controlled from your phone.

Netflix will supposedly release more details of the games compatible with the platform

Even though the app is out, there’s still a lot we don’t know. Which games will it work with? How do you pair your phone with the TV? And when will there be an app for Android users? The app description just says more details about playing games with it on the platform are “coming soon.”

Netflix getting into games isn’t a big shock. Over the past two years, they’ve started to add games, with almost 70 now available. Some of these games are on the Netflix app itself, while others are on phones and game consoles. One big game they have is “Oxenfree II: Lost Signals.” The people who made that game, Night School, are now working directly with Netflix.

Upcoming games on Netflix include “Storytellers,” “Paper Trail,” the “Monument Valley” series, and even a game from the “Assassin’s Creed” series. There’s also a LEGO game coming soon. It seems likely you’ll be able to play some of these games with the new controller app.

When Engadget asked Netflix about which games will work with the app and if there’ll be an Android version, Netflix didn’t give any answers. Everyone’s now waiting to see what comes next.

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It seems that Netflix‘s recent actions are not fruitless, as the company reports a surge in subscribers during the second quarter of 2023. The streaming giant added nearly 6 million paying subscribers, an impressive 8 percent increase, validating the effectiveness of its push to stop users from sharing accounts beyond their households. For context, Netflix banned account sharing between people to boost its own revenue.

This new feature has now been implemented in over 100 countries

Contrary to concerns at the time of this decision’s execution, the crackdown on password sharing has not resulted in mass cancellations. Instead, it has inspired more people to sign up for their own accounts. According to the company’s letter to shareholders, there has been a healthy conversion of borrowers into full-paying Netflix members, along with an uptake of the new “extra member” feature.

In addition to restricting account sharing, Netflix has introduced a “paid sharing” option, allowing subscribers to pay $8 per month to add an “extra member” to their account. This feature is now available in over 100 countries, showcasing Netflix’s commitment to enhancing user experience globally. The company has also streamlined its subscription plans, recently discontinuing its $10 “basic” plan in the United States and the UK after its removal in Canada.

Looking ahead, Netflix plans to extend its password-sharing restrictions to the remaining countries where they are not yet enforced, such as India, Indonesia, Kenya, and Croatia. Instead of offering the “extra member” option in these regions, users will be able to transfer their profiles to fresh accounts.

During the company’s live-streamed interview discussing its results, co-CEO Ted Sarandos addressed the ongoing strikes among Hollywood’s actors and writers. He stated that Netflix is committed to finding an equitable solution, even though they have lowered their cash expenditure estimates by $1.5 billion due to the impact of the strikes.

The introduction of “paid sharing” and the streamlining of subscription plans have further strengthened the company’s position as the leading global streaming platform. With ongoing measures to restrict password sharing in additional countries, Netflix continues to adapt to industry challenges while maintaining its focus on delivering exceptional content and user experience.

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Razer, the leading global brand for gamers, has made a significant leap forward in gaming audio with the introduction of its very first in-ear monitor (IEM), the Razer Moray. The company has been known to innovate when it comes to niche gaming products, and it doesn’t shy away from it. Designed to meet the unique demands of gamers and marathon streamers, this IEM claims to provide all-day comfort with exceptional audio quality, normalizing extended, fatigue-free gaming and broadcast sessions.

The Razer Moray can block up to -36dB of noise as well

Alvin Cheung, Senior Vice President of Razer’s Hardware Business Unit, expressed his enthusiasm for the Moray’s launch, stating, “The introduction of the Moray marks an exciting milestone for Razer. It represents an evolution in gaming audio, offering streamers high-definition sound and long-lasting comfort. With the Razer Moray, we are bringing the outstanding audio quality typically associated with in-ear monitors not only to streamers but also to gamers. We are especially proud to announce that this product has obtained the prestigious THX Certification, the globally recognized gold standard mark of audio fidelity.”

The Razer Moray sets new standards in gaming and streaming audio, thanks to its THX Certification, which guarantees quality, consistency, and performance. Tested and optimized by leading audio experts, the Moray delivers clear vocals, distortion-free audio, and superior noise isolation, ensuring the highest audio standards for gaming and streaming. This certification assures users that right out of the box, the Moray presents the artist’s true vision, blending art, technology, and the dynamics of real-world listening environments.

The Moray boasts a hybrid dual-driver acoustic design, combining a balanced armature driver for crisp trebles with a dynamic driver for deep, rich bass. The result is exceptional audio quality that keeps streamers fully immersed with their audience for hours on end. In line with Razer’s commitment to ergonomic excellence, the Moray prioritizes comfort during extended streaming sessions. Its low-profile, ergonomic shape provides a snug fit that surpasses traditional headsets, eliminating pressure on the head and ears and ensuring a seamless, fatigue-free streaming experience.

Not just an IEM, the Moray is a content creation powerhouse. It offers superior passive noise isolation, capable of blocking up to -36 dB of noise, allowing streamers to maintain focus on creating engaging content and captivating their audiences.

The Moray is equipped with premium braided over-ear wires, featuring OFC MMCX cables and flexible memory loop tubing. This design ensures the in-ear monitors remain securely in place while streamers entertain their fans, providing uninterrupted streaming sessions. With three types of ear tips available in three different sizes, the Moray guarantees optimal comfort and sound isolation for individual preferences. The inclusion of a portable, splash-resistant carrying case allows for convenient storage and easy transportation, enabling streamers to create and stream content anytime, anywhere.

Razer’s entrance into the IEM market with the Moray signifies a significant shift in the gaming and streaming audio landscape. Boasting a hybrid dual-driver acoustic design for full-range audio, exceptional passive noise isolation, and unparalleled comfort for all-day streaming or gaming, the Moray is one such product that can break through the ceiling of in-ear streaming.

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According to a recent report released by OnlyAccounts.io, a British subscription service provider, the global revenue from subscription-based streaming media (SVOD) is expected to reach $95.3 billion in 2023. This represents an 18% year-on-year increase from the previous year. The report also projects that by 2027, the revenue will soar to $137 billion, showing an impressive 73% increase.

The Market revenue will reach $137 billion by the year 2027

The rise of subscription-based streaming media has been phenomenal in recent years. In 2017, there were approximately 610 million subscriptions worldwide, a number that grew to 1.16 billion by 2022. This trend is expected to continue, with streaming media surpassing other segments of the media and entertainment market.

Statista Market Insights confirms this growth, reporting that global revenue from subscription-based streaming has nearly tripled since 2017 and is projected to exceed $80 billion by 2022. In contrast, physical sales have declined by nearly 30%, and digital pay-per-views and paid downloads have shown slower growth compared to streaming services such as Netflix, Prime Video and Hulu.

Interestingly, Statista reveals that nearly 65% of SVOD’s total revenue comes from just three countries. The United States, the largest SVOD market globally, is expected to generate $39.2 billion in revenue this year. It is projected to continue growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% from 2023 to 2027, reaching an estimated market size of $54.6 billion.

China follows as the second-largest market, experiencing an average growth rate of 10.1% during this period. SVOD revenue in China is expected to increase from $19.4 billion to $28.5 billion. The United Kingdom ranks third, with revenues approaching $5.5 billion by 2027 and a four-year CAGR of 8.9%.

The surge in subscription-based streaming media is reshaping the global media landscape. With billions of dollars in revenue and millions of subscribers, the industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years. As consumer preferences shift towards on-demand content, subscription-based streaming is expected to dominate the market, leaving traditional media formats in its wake.

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Netflix, which has been focusing on the crackdown on the password-sharing practice, has now finally started charging for account sharing in the United States.

The media streaming giant is now requiring users to pay an additional $8 per month for each user who doesn’t live in the same household as the primary account holder.

As a part of this new policy, the account holder will now have to pay an additional $8 per user who accesses the platform outside of the primary household. Currently, only Standard Plan and Premium Plan support adding additional members, and the Basic Plan, as well as Standard Plan with Ads, don’t support extra members.

Similarly, users in the UK will also need to pay £4.99 more each month for extra members added to the account. This is a significant cost increase on top of the normal plan subscription. It remains to be seen how users in the United States will receive this new policy from Netflix, as it’s a major increase in cost and will have an impact in the longer run.

While the company says that it is seeing an increase in revenue after the implementation of this new policy, there are several users who plan to cancel the subscription altogether. The company estimates that over 100 million households account for password-sharing, and the crackdown on this could generate significantly more revenue.

Before implementing this policy in the United States, the company had been testing it in a number of countries, including Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, and Guatemala. The company says that the test was successful and it has resulted in a decrease in password sharing.

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Netflix, the world’s leading streaming service, has slashed its prices by up to 50% in over 30 countries. This move seems counterintuitive, given that the company raised prices in North America last year. However, Netflix is adapting to changing viewer habits post-lockdown and experimenting with a balance between revenue and subscriber growth.

The subscription price cuts have been implemented in parts of the Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Netflix has also introduced a cheaper ad-supported plan in 12 countries. These moves come as several other streaming services have raised prices recently, with Disney+, Hulu, and Sling TV among them.

According to John Hodulik, media and entertainment analyst at UBS Group AG, Netflix’s decision “definitely goes against the recent trends not just for Netflix, but for the broader streaming industry”. However, in January, co-CEO Greg Peters stated that the company wants to find areas where it can raise prices, helping to fund new content investments. The regional price increases also allow Netflix to add a new demographic of subscribers to global markets where its share could be higher. Since rival services, including Disney+, HBO Max and Paramount+, are expanding globally, Netflix likely made a decision keeping all that in mind.

In addition to price cuts, Netflix is rolling out a new monthly fee for people who share their login credentials outside their homes. Netflix intends to use IP addresses, device IDs, and account activity to enforce its password-sharing policies. Although multi-household sharing has never been permitted by Netflix’s terms of service, it has been permitted for so long that charging for account access to friends and family could annoy some subscribers.

The program has gone through a trial phase in Latin America and has been rolled out in Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, and Spain. The new fee is $8 in Canada and New Zealand, €4 in Portugal, and €6 in Spain. The new payment structure will make its way to the US early this year. 

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Netflix, one of the leading media streaming platforms globally, had long said that its service would not include advertisements, but that is about to change as the company recently said that it will roll out a cheaper ad-supported plan.

While the new plan was said to be rolled out over the next year or two, it appears that the company is planning to offer it sooner. In an internal memo, it is said that the ad-supported plan will be released later this year.

As per the report in The New York Times, the company’s executives have told in an internal note that the cheaper ad-supported plan will be rolled out in the last quarter of this year.

During the same timeframe, the company could also introduce extra fees for the subscribers who are sharing a password to their Netflix account with other people who do not reside at the same address.

It was noted in the memo that every major streaming platform apart from Apple TV+ offers a low-cost plan with advertisements, including Hulu, HBO Max, Peacock, and others.

The company recently revealed that there are more than 222 million households who are paid subscribers of Netflix but it also claimed that about 100 million households are using the service with someone else’s account.

Greg Peters, CFO of Netflix, said that the company isn’t trying to shut down password sharing but it is going to ask users to pay a bit more to share accounts. It’s noteworthy that the company is testing extra fees for account sharing in Peru, Chile, and Costa Rica.

These new developments for the streaming giant come after its subscriber numbers fell for the first time. The company reported that last quarter, it lost 200,000 members, mainly due to the shutdown of its business in Russia. It is also expecting to lose another two million users this quarter.

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Netflix adopts various means to get people on board its service. Last year it made some shows and movies free to watch without the need for a subscription. Its latest one is a free mobile plan, devoid of ads, that has made its debut in Kenya.

The free plan still has a limited selection but this time there are whole seasons of series available for viewing. Users will need to register to enjoy the free plan but they won’t be required to enter payment details. Netflix hopes that users will eventually pay for a subscription.

This is the first time Netflix is launching a free plan and one that is ad-free. The streaming service also confirmed that plan has features such as parental controls and kid profiles that are available to its paid subscribers.

The free plan has already begun rolling out in Kenya and should be available to more users over the next few weeks. However, there is no news of if and when it will be available in other countries.

Netflix is known to have certain plans that are exclusive to select markets. For example, it has two mobile plans in India. One costs ₹199 (~$2.70) that allows users to stream in HD on a phone or tablet. The other is the Mobile+ plan that is ₹349 (~$4.73) but allows you to stream in HD on a phone, tablet, and computer. There is a chance this free plan won’t be available in all markets where Netflix operates.

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Earlier today (15th July 2021), OnePlus India announced that it would be joining hands with Lionsgate Play. This strategic partnership will enable it to offer access to the vast global content library of Lionsgate for its OnePlus TV users.

The move is beneficial to both firms, as the streaming platform can expand its user base while the Chinese consumer electronics maker will be able to offer a better selection of content to its customers. Furthermore, the curated content from across the globe from Lionsgate Play will now be available on all OnePlus TVs, which also includes the newly launched TV U1S. Notably, the Lionsgate Play platform will also be easily accessible on OxygenPlay, which is the content discovery platform of the smartphone brand.

Through the Lionsgate Play partnership, users can expect to see academy award winning movies, box office hits, and local titles as well. This will also include content that will be available in six different languages in India, namely Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Kannada, and Bhojpuri. Navnit Nakra, Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, and Head of India Sales at OnePlus India stated that “Our focus is to provide an unparalleled and immersive smart TV experience to our community. The partnership with Lionsgate Play will provide our OnePlus TV users access to exclusive content curated from all over the world across genres and languages thus further elevating their content viewing experience.”

Similarly, Amit Dhanuka, Executive Vice President at Lionsgate added that “We are big believers of the large screen format as it is the best place to watch premium content and adds richness to the experience. This partnership will strengthen our audience base and provide a great viewing experience. We have seen a tremendous response to the service launch in India as people are loving the content and the experience. Few titles that are breaking all consumption records on our platform are Hunter Killer, Angel Has Fallen, Normal People, The Girlfriend Experience, John Wick 3, Love Island among others.”

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Quibi, a short form media streaming service that focused on mobile-only consumption, is shutting down just about six months after officially getting launched. This makes it the shortest-lived video streaming service provider to date.

The step taken by the company was inevitable given the botched launch of the service but what’s surprising is that the platform is shutting down just months after its launch. Just a day before, the company had launched its app on Apple TV. So far, the company has not notified its final date to the subscribers.

As per the report from the Wall Street Journal, the company’s founder Jeffrey Katzenberg and Chief Executive Meg Whitman decided to shut down the service to return as much capital to investors as possible instead of trying to prolong the life of the company and risk losing more money.

People aware of the development say that the company will layoff its staff and will pay a severance package. As for the content, Quibi will be exploring options to sell rights to some of the content as well as technology.

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Quibi was launched on 6th April amid the COVID-19 pandemic, although the company had planned its launch months in advance. It offers content to users in 5- to 10-minute chapters to fit on a smartphone screen, designed to be consumed on-the-go.

The company had spent aggressively to develop its content, which includes a star-studded lineup of programming, featuring Chrissy Teigen, Anna Kendrick, Christoph Waltz, Liam Hemsworth, among others.

Earlier in July, Sensor Tower reported that Quibi lost more than 90 percent of its 910,000 subscribers after the three-month free trial period. While the company disputed that claim, it never revealed the actual subscribers count.

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Earlier than what was previously announced, Disney+ is now live in India. The launch arrives about 18 days early and is under the rebranded Hotstar name, namely Disney+ Hotstar. The Disney+ originals will aim to bring content from cinema industry giants like Marvel, Pixar, and even National Geographic.

The streaming service has just gone live earlier today (11th March 2020) and brings a large selection of movies and series to choose from. The catalog offered has big names in Marvel’s superhero franchises and Pixar’s all time classic animations as well. In addition to this, kids show, documentaries and classic cartoons are also available. A few notable movies include Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, Doctor Strange and Pixar’s A Bug’s Life and Cars 3. National Geographic’s Oscar winning documentary  Free Solo can also be found here.

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However, the list doesn’t stop there. Since its an online streaming platform, it is bound to also have exclusives as well, similar to Netflix or Amazon Prime. For those interested, Here’s the list of originals that can only be found in Disney+ Hotstar:

• Diary of a Future President: Season 1
• Disney Family Sundays: Season 1
• Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings: Season 2
• Encore!: Season 1
• Forky Asks a Question: Season 1
• High School Musical: The Musical: The Series: Season 1
• Lady and the Tramp (2019)
• Lamp Life
• The Mandalorian: Season 1
• Marvel’s Hero Project: Season 1, ongoing
• Noelle
• One Day at Disney
• One Day at Disney: Season 1, ongoing
• Pick of the Litter: Season 1
• Pixar in Real Life: Season 1, ongoing
• Shop Class: Season 1, ongoing
• Short Circuit: Season 1
• SparkShorts: Season 1
• Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made
• Togo
• The World According to Jeff Goldblum: Season 1

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(Via)

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OnePlus has come across several issues related to its smartphones, starting from privacy mayhem to security loophole. Now, another issue related to the company’s devices have surfaced online. OnePlus phones are not able to stream High Definition (HD) content on platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

The streaming of media content on such platforms is limited to only standard definition (SD) resolution. This is surprising given that the phone has an HD-capable display and packs powerful hardware, which is more than enough to allow HD streaming.

This was noted in a thread on the OnePlus forums, which points to lack of support for Widevine Level 1 DRM, which many streaming service providers require for HD streaming.

The recently launched OP 5T presently supports Widevine Level 3, which only covers standard definition streams. It has been confirmed that both the OnePlus 5T and its predecessor are currently unable to stream Netflix or Amazon Prime videos higher than the SD resolution. The previous generation smartphones from the company — OnePlus 3 and 3T are also affected.

However, a spokesperson from the company has confirmed that the feature was skipped from the start on these devices. While the company didn’t mention why they skipped the feature, OnePlus says that it will soon roll out a software update which will add this functionality on the OnePlus 5 and 5T. But, there is no time-frame provided by the company regarding the availability of the update to fix this issue. Interestingly, the company has not mentioned OP 3 and the 3T in the press release.

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The recently launched OP 5T smartphone comes with a 6-inch Full HD+ display and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor. The configuration is more than enough to support HD streaming and the lack of support for HD streaming is an odd omission. It’s quite confusing as the Widevine website says that “Google does not assess license fees for the Widevine product”. So, the addition of this feature in the first place wouldn’t have cost anything. We just hope that OnePlus addresses this issue with the software update sooner.

(Source)

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