Disney+ and Netflix are looking at free streaming tiers as part of a bigger shift in the industry. Both platforms are exploring ad-supported options to compete with YouTube and bring in more viewers.
Disney’s Chief Product and Technology Officer mentioned the idea of a free tier during an internal town hall. No timeline was given, but it would be a big change from its current paid plans for Basic and Premium, which have increased in the past years.
Meanwhile, Netflix Co-CEO Greg Peters said a free tier could work in some international markets where subscriptions are harder to convert. He added that it is unlikely for the US, showing Netflix’s focus on regions where cost and access remain challenges.
Paramount+ is also preparing to expand free access to movies and shows, going beyond the limited free episodes offered by Apple TV+.
Free streaming is growing fast. In the US, services like YouTube, Tubi, and The Roku Channel made up 18.7% of TV watch time (as of April 2026), up from 12.7% in 2024.
It’s similar to what’s happening in the Philippines. A 2025 study from Kantar shows that 88% of Filipinos in Visayas and Mindanao watch YouTube every day, more than traditional TV. This growth is pushing paid platforms to rethink their strategies.
Subscription prices in the country have increased. Netflix starts at ₱279 for Basic and ₱619 for Premium, which includes the 12% digital VAT. Disney+, on the other hand, is priced at ₱289 for Basic and ₱599 for Premium.
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The move toward free tiers shows how streaming giants are adjusting to viewer demand and market pressure. The question now is what “free” will really mean. Will it come with more ads, fewer choices, or limited access? For now, the details remain unclear.
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