No More Sharing Netflix Passwords? A New Test Adds Charge For Additional Users

Netflix is set to run a test trial in select countries that would limit the number of people that can use one account, and add an extra charge for those who do use the same account.

“We’ve always made it easy for people who live together to share their Netflix account, with features like separate profiles and multiple streams in our Standard and Premium plans,” Chengyi Long, director of product innovation at Netflix wrote in a statement when announcing the test, “Paying to Share Netflix Outside Your Household.”

“While these have been hugely popular, they have also created some confusion about when and how Netflix can be shared. As a result, accounts are being shared between households — impacting our ability to invest in great new TV and films for our members,” Long added.

Netflix’s terms of service state that “Netflix membership may not be shared with individuals beyond your household.” But many have found ways around this. Netflix now is testing ways to restrict the ability to do so.

The “add an extra member” feature will allow members with Netflix’s Standard and Premium plans to add up to two people outside of their household to their profile for an additional charge. The test is expected to roll out within the next few weeks in three countries. 

This will be tested in Chile for $2.99 USD a person, in Costa Rica for an amount that is about $2.98 USD and in Peru for about $2.21 USD.

“We’ll be working to understand the utility of these two features for members in these three countries before making changes anywhere else in the world,” Long said.