Why Am I Seeing Ads on Netflix (2022)? The Deep Dive

You’re settled in for a cozy evening, ready to binge your favorite show on Netflix, and BAM! An ad pops up. The sheer audacity! If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re probably wondering: Why am I seeing ads on Netflix in 2022? The short answer is: you’re likely subscribed to Netflix’s “Basic with Ads” plan, which launched in November 2022. This cheaper subscription option gives you access to most of Netflix’s vast library, but at the cost of tolerating approximately 4 to 5 minutes of advertisements per hour of viewing. Let’s unpack this shift and explore what it means for you.

The Evolution of Netflix: From Ad-Free Paradise to Hybrid Model

For years, Netflix staunchly maintained its ad-free experience as a core selling point. This pristine viewing environment was a major draw for subscribers who were tired of traditional television’s relentless commercial breaks. But the media landscape is in constant flux, and Netflix has had to adapt. Several converging factors led to the introduction of the “Basic with Ads” plan.

The Streaming Wars Heat Up

The competition in the streaming market has become incredibly intense. Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Paramount+, and countless other platforms are all vying for your subscription dollars. Each platform brings something unique to the table. To stay competitive and continue to attract new subscribers, Netflix needed to offer a more affordable option.

Subscription Growth Slowdown

Netflix experienced a significant slowdown in subscriber growth, particularly in saturated markets like North America. Economic pressures and increased competition contributed to this stagnation. Offering a cheaper, ad-supported tier was seen as a way to reignite growth by appealing to more price-sensitive consumers.

Revenue Diversification

Relying solely on subscription revenue puts immense pressure on subscriber acquisition and retention. Adding an advertising revenue stream diversifies Netflix’s income and provides a buffer against potential subscriber losses. This also allows them to invest further in content production and platform improvements.

Understanding the “Basic with Ads” Plan

The “Basic with Ads” plan is a deliberate strategy to broaden Netflix’s appeal. It’s a calculated trade-off: lower subscription fee in exchange for tolerating advertisements.

What You Get

• Lower Price: The primary advantage is the reduced monthly cost compared to the ad-free plans. This makes Netflix more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
• Most of the Content Library: While not all titles are available due to licensing restrictions (more on that below), you still have access to the vast majority of Netflix’s shows and movies.
• Standard Definition (720p): This plan streams in 720p, which is decent but not as sharp as the higher-resolution options offered in other plans.

What You Give Up

• Advertisements: This is the most obvious drawback. You’ll encounter roughly 4 to 5 minutes of ads per hour of viewing. These ads typically play before and during shows and movies.
• Limited Content: A small percentage of titles are unavailable due to licensing issues. This is because Netflix needs to secure advertising rights for each piece of content.
• No Offline Downloads: You cannot download shows or movies for offline viewing with the “Basic with Ads” plan. This is a significant limitation for travelers or those with unreliable internet access.

How to Get Rid of Ads on Netflix

The solution is simple: upgrade your Netflix subscription. You will need to upgrade to one of the ad-free plans to eliminate advertisements during your viewing experience. Here are your options:

• Standard: Offers ad-free viewing in 1080p (Full HD) on two devices simultaneously.
• Premium: Provides ad-free viewing in 4K Ultra HD with HDR on four devices simultaneously, plus spatial audio.

Is the “Basic with Ads” Plan Worth It?

The answer depends entirely on your viewing habits and budget. If you’re highly sensitive to advertisements or frequently watch content on the go, the ad-free plans are probably a better choice. However, if you’re looking for the cheapest way to access Netflix and don’t mind occasional ads, the “Basic with Ads” plan could be a reasonable compromise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long are the ads on Netflix’s “Basic with Ads” plan?

The ads are typically 15 to 30 seconds long. You’ll usually see them before and during your shows and movies.

2. Can I skip the ads on Netflix?

No, you cannot skip the ads on the “Basic with Ads” plan. They are a mandatory part of the viewing experience.

3. Are all shows and movies available on the “Basic with Ads” plan?

No, a small percentage of titles are unavailable due to licensing restrictions related to advertising rights. This is usually communicated on the platform.

4. Can I download content for offline viewing on the “Basic with Ads” plan?

No, offline downloads are not supported on the “Basic with Ads” plan.

5. What resolution is supported on the “Basic with Ads” plan?

The “Basic with Ads” plan supports a resolution of 720p (Standard Definition).

6. How much does the “Basic with Ads” plan cost?

The price varies by region, but it is generally the cheapest Netflix subscription option. You can find the exact price on the Netflix website for your country.

7. What types of ads will I see on Netflix?

You can expect to see ads for a variety of products and services, including other Netflix shows, movies, and external brands.

8. Does Netflix track my viewing habits to personalize ads?

Yes, Netflix uses your viewing data to personalize the ads you see. This helps them deliver more relevant and targeted advertisements.

9. Can I opt out of personalized ads on Netflix?

You can manage your ad personalization settings in your Netflix account. However, opting out won’t eliminate ads entirely, it will just show you more generic advertisements.

10. Will Netflix introduce ads to its other subscription plans in the future?

Netflix has stated that they have no current plans to introduce ads to their ad-free subscription plans. However, the streaming landscape is constantly evolving, and future changes are always possible.

11. What devices are compatible with the “Basic with Ads” plan?

The “Basic with Ads” plan is compatible with most devices that support Netflix, including smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, tablets, and computers.

12. How do I upgrade from the “Basic with Ads” plan to an ad-free plan?

You can upgrade your subscription plan in your Netflix account settings. Simply select a different plan and follow the on-screen instructions. The change will usually take effect immediately or at the beginning of your next billing cycle.

The Future of Streaming: Ads Are Here to Stay

While the introduction of ads on Netflix may have initially been met with resistance, it’s clear that ad-supported streaming tiers are becoming increasingly common. As the streaming market matures and competition intensifies, these hybrid models are likely to become the norm. The key for Netflix, and other streaming services, will be to strike the right balance between ad revenue and user experience. No one wants to be bombarded with endless commercials, but a few well-placed and relevant ads may be a tolerable price to pay for more affordable access to a vast library of content.