There was both pleasant and unpleasant news that Netflix had in store for its subscribers. Let's start with the unpleasant.

Netflix, wanting to turn as many users as possible to its most expensive package, announced that it would completely eliminate the middle 'Standard' package. This change will begin in America and Canada and will then extend to other countries that have the introductory package with advertisements.

The relevant announcement was made in the context of revealing the company's financial results, with its executives stating:

In the fourth quarter of 2023, as well as the previous quarter before that, the members of the program with advertisements increased by almost 70%, thanks to the improvements in what we offer (such as downloads) and the gradual phasing out of the Basic program for new and returning members in markets where the advertising package exists.

The advertising program now represents 40% of all Netflix registered members in our advertising markets. Thus, we intend to completely withdraw our basic package in some of these countries, starting with Canada and the United Kingdom in the second quarter, and continuing from there. 

Now to the pleasant news. After a letter Netflix sent to its shareholders on Tuesday, 1/23, it informed them about the series that will return in 2024, among which is Squid Game, which we expected to be delayed until 2025. The announcement stated:

Looking ahead, despite last year's strikes that canceled the release of some titles, we have a big, bold plan for 2024. The audience will be able to choose from successful dramas like The Diplomat (season 2), Bridgerton (season 3), Squid Game (season 2), and Empress (season 2).

But also series and shows such as Tour de France: Unchained, Love is Blind, F1: Drive to Survive, Full Swing, and the new series 3 Body Problem which is based on a book and comes from the creators of Game of Thrones.

Source: Avant Garde