EntertainmentStreamingHow I would fix Netflix: 3 lessons it needs to learnNetflix is in a bit of a funk and, to get out of it, here’s three things that I think need to changeWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
EntertainmentStreamingHow I would fix Netflix: 3 lessons it needs to learnNetflix is in a bit of a funk and, to get out of it, here’s three things that I think need to changeWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Netflix is in a bit of a funk and, to get out of it, here’s three things that I think need to change
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: SOPA Images / Getty Images)
(Image credit: SOPA Images / Getty Images)
Netflixis in a bit of a rut.
The original streaming service, having so successfully shifted from selling DVDs, has become a household name and global phenomenon, gifting us legendary original TV shows, loads of memes, and acult phrase.
While it might be still be among thebest streaming services, the cracks are appearing after the pandemic seeminglyinflated demandand years of profligate spending – plus thedeparture of key personnel– created a problem that seems difficult to correct.
Of course, things aren’t over forNetflix: millions of people around the world still subscribe to its services and low its shows and movies. However, it’s hard to escape the feeling that Netflix is in trouble.
AsDisney+ andAmazon PrimeVideo go from strength to strength, Netflix needs to be careful.
The company recentlylaid off 150 people, out of its 11,000-odd workforce, including some from executive ranks, a potential sign of things to come.
To help Netflix out, we thought we’d offer some unsolicited advice, so here goes.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
(Image credit: about.netflix.com)
(Image credit: about.netflix.com)
Ads ads ads
After many years rejecting adding ads to the service, Netflix now appears like it will relent, although when exactlyremains unclear.
The upshot, though, is that ads make a lot of sense because they mean Netflix can launch cheap – or free – tiers, available to a lot more people, especially in low-income countries.
Given that Netflix is best known for its TV output, ads are a fairly natural part of the experience, too, as opposed to putting multiple ad breaks within a movie.
The beauty of the system would also be that Netflix will still offer ad-free plans, just for more money, so you’ll never have to watch ads if you don’t want to.
(Image credit: Netflix)
(Image credit: Netflix)
More quality content
It’s easier said than done – obviously – but Netflix needs to get back to its original content roots, reminding people why they subscribed in the first place.
The service has been overrun with average, so-so content that leaves you feeling empty after scrolling through the first pages.
Amazon, for example, has gone down the route of producing endless high quality sports documentaries, such as the All or Nothing series, and it makes a lot of sense: sportspeople want to control their own narratives.
Netflix has produced a lot of high quality documentaries, of course, and there is no need to mimic what a rival is doing. But finding a niche and working on that, getting back to its core, would do Netflix the world of good.
People used to go to Netflix asthedestination but I doubt that is the case for a lot of people now.
(Image credit: Future Publishing)
(Image credit: Future Publishing)
Let people take screenshots
Netflix is never going to get people off-handedly creating memes about their shows, or even sharing screenshots with friends, without screenshots and removing them was a mistake.
It’s unlikely to completely reverse the fortunes of the company – and there are ways around the block – but it definitely doesn’t help, especially in a time when Netflix wants its content to go far and wide.
Netflix needs to foster buzz around its shows and genuine water-cooler moments, with people chatting about what’s new and hot at work.
TOPICSnetflix
TOPICS
Vollebak pushes the limits of outerwear with Double Graphene Puffer and Shielding SuitThe company continues to weave innovation into every thread
The company continues to weave innovation into every thread
Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 review: sensational sound, ordinary ANCBowers & Wilkins' step-down true wireless earbuds sound amazing and are well-priced – so what’s the catch, if anything?
Bowers & Wilkins' step-down true wireless earbuds sound amazing and are well-priced – so what’s the catch, if anything?
Netflix is making a huge surprise change for hit spy show’s new seasonThe Recruit is taking a global trip this time out
The Recruit is taking a global trip this time out
Amy Schumer’s Netflix comedy will leave your jaw on the floorOne big taboo gets busted in Kinda Pregnant
One big taboo gets busted in Kinda Pregnant
Disney+’s most eagerly-awaited new Marvel series also looks to be its most brutalDaredevil: Born Again clearly won’t be for the faint of heart
Daredevil: Born Again clearly won’t be for the faint of heart
Amazon surprisingly removing one of the best sci-fi shows of all time from Prime VideoNot only was the show cancelled, it’s now being ditched from the streaming service
Not only was the show cancelled, it’s now being ditched from the streaming service
My most anticipated Apple TV+ show gets another tantalising teaserThe Studio gets a minute tease
The Studio gets a minute tease
Is this the most insufferable Netflix trailer of all time?Meghan Markle has a show coming
Meghan Markle has a show coming
One of PlayStation’s best exclusives to become unlikely new action seriesGhost of Tsushima will get a new adaptation
Ghost of Tsushima will get a new adaptation
Netflix’s sci-fi horror series looks astonishing in full trailerCassandra looks like a slow-burn horror
Cassandra looks like a slow-burn horror
