​The latest Internet viral sensation went way beyond fights about a white/blue/black/gold dress. On Monday, rumors spread that Netflix was doing the unthinkable - testing ads on its notably ad-free streaming service.

Netflix began running promos for Netflix shows before certain original series, and after seeing these spots, some sites posted that Netflix was testing pre-roll ads in select cities.

The rumors were unfounded - promos for its own series are not the same as selling ad space - and Netflix stands by its long-standing policy of no advertising. In fact, its promo strategy mirrors what premium networks like HBO do, promoting its other offerings ahead of new series.

Netflix guaranteed that it will remain an ad-free service after subscribers and streaming fans in general expressed outrage at the idea.

In response to the widespread Internet anger, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings posted a firm denial on Facebook:


A spokesperson for Netflix added:

“We are not planning to test or implement third-party advertising on the Netflix service. For some time, we’ve teased Netflix originals with short trailers after a member finishes watching a show. Some members in a limited test now are seeing teases before a show begins. We test hundreds of potential improvements to the service every year. Many never extend beyond that.”

Read more at Adweek.

Brief Take: One of Netflix’s primary appeals to consumer is its ad-free streaming, so subscribers were understandably frustrated at the rumor that Netflix was testing any sort of ads.

[Image courtesy of Netflix]

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