Starting May 23rd in the US Netflix is escalating its efforts to combat password sharing in the US, following recent pilot programs in Latin America. This move will curtail users from sharing their subscriptions with individuals outside their immediate households. Here’s a closer look at how this new policy will function.
On May 23rd, emails began landing in the inboxes of Netflix subscribers. In these communications, Netflix emphasized that an account is designated for “you and the individuals within your household.” However, there’s an option to extend access to others by opting for an “extra member” fee.
For those on the Standard and Premium plans, the “extra member” fee amounts to an additional $7.99 monthly. But those subscribed to Netflix’s Basic or Standard with Ads packages won’t have the luxury of this feature.
As Netflix gears up to enforce this password sharing deterrent, here are the finer details of these impending regulations.
Editor’s Note: This article received an update on May 26th, post the initiation of Netflix’s password sharing constraints in the US.
What’s the Price Tag on the “Extra Member” Fee?
For US audiences, Netflix’s “extra member” charge stands at an additional $7.99 monthly. Subscribers of the Standard plan can include one more user outside their household. Conversely, those with a Netflix Premium subscription can accommodate two additional users for the same fee.
Yet, if your subscription lies in the realm of Netflix’s more economical options — the $9.99 per month Basic or the $6.99 monthly Standard with Ads package — the “extra member” feature remains inaccessible. The same restriction applies to accounts sponsored by collaborators like Verizon or T-Mobile.
What Constitutes a “Netflix Household”?
A “Netflix Household” is determined by the location where the primary user frequently watches Netflix on a TV, using a specific IP address. To stay linked to this main address, users must ensure they connect their devices to the related Wi-Fi network and actively use Netflix at least monthly.
Netflix employs data, such as IP addresses, device identification, and account activity, to assess if a device logged into the account correlates with the designated primary location.
How Can I Extend Access Outside My Household?
If you use a device not identified with your designated Netflix Household, you might face access restrictions. To sidestep this limitation, you can opt for the extra member subscription.
This additional member will have a distinct account and password, with the fee being shouldered by the original subscriber. However, these secondary users must establish their profiles within the host’s country.
There are some constraints: these added members can only stream or download content on a single device at any given time, and they cannot set up extra profiles or access the Kids section.
What If I’m On the Move?
Before setting out on a journey, ensure you’re connected to your Netflix Household’s Wi-Fi and indulge in some Netflix content. By doing so, you establish a “trusted device,” granting you the privilege to access Netflix outside your primary setting.
And If I Frequently Shuttle Between Different Locations?
The principle remains consistent. Formulate a “trusted device” by linking to the Wi-Fi at your primary site and enjoy some Netflix content monthly. Occasionally, you might need to solicit a temporary access code.