Netflix is considering introducing a new and more expensive ‘Ultra’ plan that would be required to stream content in HDR video quality, according to CNET. The company is currently testing it with select European customers.
More expensive ’Ultra’ plan
Netflix currently offers three streaming tiers. Basic gives you access to SD resolution, Standard gives you access to HD resolution, and Premium covers 4K resolution and HDR.
Netflix is considering moving HDR (High Dynamic Range) to a more expensive Ultra plan. In other words a price hike. Some users are also seeing changes to how many simultaneous streams that are allowed. A FlatpanelsHD reader said that in Austria he is seeing 1 stream for the Basic and Standard plans, 2 simultaneous streams for the Premium plan, and 4 for the Ultra plan.
Below you see pricing for Germany.
It may sound strange to be ”testing” a price increase but Netflix often tests new features or changes with its users to evaluate the effects. Different user groups see various implementations of the new feature or change. This time, the company is testing price electivity.
- ”We continuously test new things at Netflix and these tests typically vary in length of time. In this case, we are testing slightly different price points and features to better understand how consumers value Netflix. Not everyone will see this test and we may not ever offer specific elements included in the test to our members," Netflix wrote in a statement to FlatpanelsHD.
A selection of users in Italy, Germany and other European countries are seeing the new Ultra plan. FlatpanelsHD was not able to confirm the details on Netflix’s European webpages.
It is not clear either where Dolby Atmos sound fits in.
Netflix may decide not to go ahead with the change. The company says that a decision has yet to be made. Netflix most recently raised its prices in the US and UK in October 2017.
- Source: CNET, Cordcutting
