Netflix's Dilemma and Future

Is Netflix in need of a makeover? The answer varies based on perspective.

Recent statistics indicate that certain shows have reached unprecedented popularity, especially since the platform began revealing viewership numbers.

Titles like "Wednesday," "Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story," "Stranger Things 4 Part 1," and "Squid Game" have shattered records, with three of them racking up over a billion viewing hours within their first month.

However, the year 2022 has not been smooth sailing for Netflix. They faced a decline in subscribers, a first in many years, and resorted to stricter measures against account-sharing to boost revenue.

Media analyst Julia Alexander from Puck News highlighted the contradiction of Netflix setting viewership milestones while simultaneously experiencing one of its toughest years. Wall Street is pressuring for growth, with new subscriber figures reflecting a downturn compared to previous years.

With Netflix constantly occupying my thoughts, I felt compelled to share some unsolicited advice with CEO Reed Hastings as we head into the new year. Despite a wealth of acclaimed shows and films, Netflix struggles to maintain its lead as the premier streaming service.

Among the discussions in the Tom's Guide team, one show stands out in our collective disappointment: "GLOW." Initially given the green light for a fourth season, this series about women in professional wrestling was a remarkable success across various demographics.

I can confidently say this because my colleague Kelly Woo and I tuned in for vastly different reasons—I'm the wrestling enthusiast while she thrives on sharp dialogue and compelling drama. Unfortunately, we've both resigned ourselves to the reality that "GLOW" may never make a comeback.

Netflix has faced criticism over its tendency to cancel beloved series, particularly those highlighting LGBTQ+ narratives. This pattern has created a perception issue that the streaming service needs to address urgently.

One potential solution is to revive canceled shows like "Glow," "First Kill," and "Warrior Nun" as feature-length films. This approach could provide fans with the closure they desire and improve Netflix's public image, potentially reducing membership cancellations due to frustration.

The introduction of an ad-supported tier in November was perceived as a rushed beta test, aimed at broadening Netflix's customer base. The new "basic with ads" plan, priced at $6.99/month, represented a move to attract budget-conscious viewers.

However, this tier has notable limitations, most significantly requiring users to downgrade to a 720p streaming experience. Launching a lower-resolution option in 2022 feels out of touch, akin to offering unpasteurized milk.

In light of this, Netflix's pricing structure could benefit from an overhaul in the coming year.

Here's a proposed pricing model:

• Basic with ads: $6.99/month
• Basic: $9.99/month
• Standard with ads: $12.49/month
• Standard: $15.49/month
• Premium with ads: $16.99/month
• Premium: $19.99/month

This revised plan suggests that both the standard (up to 1080p) and premium (up to 4K) ad-supported tiers could align with a $3 discount for viewers willing to watch ads. Given that advertisers typically pay more for access to higher-paying subscribers, there is the potential for even greater discounts in the future, a possibility Netflix has hinted at.

Netflix's Content Challenges

The presence of red "lock" icons signifies that certain shows and movies are unavailable on Netflix's ad-supported tier.

Netflix is actively addressing this issue by working to expand its library for ad subscribers. Currently, many titles are missing due to unresolved licensing agreements.

Once these obstacles are overcome, the ad-supported version of Netflix could become significantly more appealing. While the introduction of a more affordable subscription level is beneficial, these ad-supported options might also help retain subscribers who crave high-quality content without the hefty $20 monthly fee.

Looking at the landscape of streaming services, appointment viewing is making a comeback. Although on-demand content remains popular— evidenced by fans who stayed up late for "Stranger Things 4"— platforms like Peacock and Paramount+ are capitalizing on live sports events, and HBO Max is set to showcase soccer matches in early January.

Even larger streaming giants are embracing this trend. Disney+ now features live broadcasts of "Dancing with the Stars," and Prime Video has secured rights to stream NFL games, specifically Thursday night football. Unfortunately for Netflix, as other platforms lock down these sports rights—such as ESPN winning the bid for F1 live streams—options for acquiring live sports content are dwindling. However, there remains an opportunity in the realm of sports entertainment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of streaming services, Netflix faces significant challenges as it aims to retain subscribers and attract new ones.

One avenue worth exploring is the realm of professional wrestling, which offers a year-round source of entertainment for its dedicated fans. Unlike traditional sports that have off-seasons, wrestling promotions like WWE keep their audience engaged throughout the year. This consistency means that fans are less likely to cancel their subscriptions to platforms like Peacock, which holds exclusive rights to WWE content.

However, Netflix should not just focus on WWE, which is currently tied to Peacock through a multi-year deal. Instead, they could consider partnering with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Launched in 2019, AEW has quickly gained traction but lacks a robust streaming strategy. Currently airing on TBS and TNT, AEW presents a unique opportunity for Netflix to tap into a passionate fan base seeking a dedicated streaming home.

While these suggestions may seem straightforward, they represent just the beginning of Netflix's potential transformation. The overarching goal should be to elevate Netflix's status to compete with industry giants like HBO, known for its prestige content.

Recent upheavals at HBO Max, including widespread cancellations and content removal, have likely shaken the confidence of its creators. While certain flagship shows continue to thrive, the uncertainty surrounding the platform could jeopardize its reputation.

To truly make Netflix indispensable, the platform must broaden its offerings. Currently excelling in true crime and competition-based reality shows, Netflix should consider diversifying its content to cultivate a more comprehensive viewing experience that resonates with a wider audience. By doing so, it could shift perceptions of Netflix from a service that viewers might return to later, to one that becomes an integral part of their entertainment routine.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network that enables users to access region-restricted content on Netflix by connecting to servers in various countries. By using a Netflix VPN, individuals can bypass geographical restrictions and enjoy a wider range of shows and movies that may not be available in their own country. To use a Netflix VPN, one must select a reliable VPN provider that supports streaming, set up an account, install the VPN application, connect to a server in the desired region, and then log in to Netflix to explore the expanded content library.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If people want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, they may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . SafeShell VPN excels in providing a seamless streaming experience with its high-speed servers that are specifically optimized for Netflix, ensuring that users can enjoy their favorite shows and movies without interruptions. These servers, designed with cutting-edge technology, guarantee lightning-fast connection speeds for buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming. Furthermore, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously, making it convenient to enjoy netflix unblocked on various platforms, whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, or Apple Vision Pro.

In addition to high-speed and multi-device compatibility, SafeShell VPN offers an exclusive App Mode feature that enables you to unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions simultaneously, providing access to a diverse array of streaming services and libraries. This is complemented by lightning-fast speeds with no bandwidth limitations, allowing for smooth streaming, downloading, and browsing. Not only does SafeShell VPN excel in performance, but it also prioritizes user security with its proprietary "ShellGuard" VPN protocol, offering top-level security for private browsing sessions. With advanced encryption and robust security features, users can confidently surf the web, knowing their data is protected from prying eyes.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To start using SafeShell Netflix VPN , begin by subscribing to their service. Visit the official SafeShell VPN website and select a plan that suits your needs and budget. Once you've picked the right plan, click on the "Subscribe Now" button to complete your subscription. After subscribing, the next step is to download and install the SafeShell VPN app. Head back to the website and choose the version compatible with your device, whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or others, and proceed with the installation.

Once installed, launch the SafeShell VPN app and log in to your account. For an optimal Netflix experience, select the APP mode, which is specifically designed to enhance streaming activities. After selecting the mode, browse through the list of servers and choose one located in the region whose Netflix content you want to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Click "Connect" to establish a secure connection to your chosen server. Finally, open the Netflix app or website, log in with your Netflix account, and enjoy streaming content from the region you have selected.