Has there ever been a more confusing time to be a streaming TV customer? Major changes have occurred in recent years, and another change is underway: Amazon Prime Video’s TV series and films will now feature commercials. Amazon offers an option to pay an extra $2.99 per month to avoid these ads. This change reflects the industry’s evolution since 2019, as every major streaming service has increased its subscription fees, and some have imposed restrictions on password sharing. Moreover, there are now more programming bundles, membership deals, ad-supported subscriptions, and streaming services overall, as surveys reveal that cost and content remain the top concerns for consumers.
If your New Year’s resolution includes managing your streaming budget, you have some challenging times ahead. However, we’re here to assist, with thanks to freelance journalist Jim Halterman and Joe Adalian, who write the Buffering newsletter for Vulture, for their valuable input.
Back in 2019, streaming was in its early stages, with the recent launch of Apple TV+ and Disney+. Most platforms were offering low prices and a lot of content to attract users. It worked, as a recent study indicated that 83% of U.S. households now subscribe to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and/or Hulu. Today, the streaming landscape has evolved into a complex phase, with a Nielsen report revealing that audiences had 90 streaming services to choose from in 2023, up from 51 at the start of 2020. Another analysis found that in June 2023, there were 2.7 million programs available, with 20% of viewers saying they often gave up trying to find good shows due to feeling overwhelmed by the options.
To navigate this complexity, viewers need a strategy for choosing the right lineup of TV streaming services that goes beyond comparing prices. It involves creating a TV diary, identifying the type of viewer you are, tracking subscriptions, conducting periodic audits, considering bundles, using apps to organize viewing, and being open to experimenting and adapting. The best strategy involves a mix of megaproviders, midlevel streamers, niche favorites, and free platforms and FAST channels.
When considering major streaming services, each has its unique offerings and price points. For instance, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube TV all cater to different needs with varied content and pricing. It’s important to weigh their features and decide which ones best suit your streaming preferences and budget.
