Netflix is now offering a selection of TV show episodes and movies for free, allowing non-subscribers the opportunity to watch before signing up. The streaming service initially launched in 1997 as competition to Blockbuster. For years, Netflix mailed DVD copies of movies to viewers, but, as the world became more digital, eventually turned to video-on-demand offerings. The company revolutionized how consumers watch movies and TV, paving the way for streaming services to take over the industry. In recent years, Netflix has turned to producing original content, making some of the most beloved – and award-winning – shows and movies.
Now, the video-on-demand world that Netflix created is quickly outpacing the original. It’s nearly impossible to navigate the wealth of streaming options available – and each new service threatens to knock Netflix off its pedestal. With Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon galore, many people just don’t know which platform to subscribe to. Netflix is still producing favorites, like The Umbrella Academy and The Witcher, but its competition is heating up. Hulu recently released the record-breaking original Palm Springs, and on Disney+, Hamilton was watched by more people in July than anything on Netflix.
To keep up with the streaming world, consumers now have the chance to sample Netflix’s content before subscribing. The streaming service has created a Watch Free page that can be accessed by non-subscribers, which carries a selection of Netflix original shows and movies. Currently, series options include Stranger Things, Love Is Blind, and When They See Us, among others, and films such as Bird Box and The Two Popes. Non-subscribers unfortunately only get a taste of the shows – just the first episode of each is available. On the page, Netflix reveals that the listings may change from time to time, urging fans to watch these ones while they’re still offered.
Although this may seem like a generous freebie on Netflix’s part, the service is likely attempting to draw in more subscribers at a time when their competition is flourishing. Notably, NBC’s service, Peacock, launched in July and offers a variety of shows and movies for free. There’s a caveat – watching comes with a ton of ads – but nonetheless, Peacock has free offerings when other streaming services do not.
This announcement also comes on the heels of many movie theaters opening up across the United States – to much argument and divisiveness. Many health experts believe attending indoor screenings is not yet safe. Although some moviegoers are jumping at the chance to see releases on the big screen, many more are refusing to visit until the virus is less prominent. With people continuing to seek out at-home viewing experiences, it seems like a profitable time for Netflix to offer free options and bring in new subscribers.
