Price rises seem almost near-constant these days, and we’ve become accustomed to regular price hikes from streaming services, but for Netflix and HBO Max subscribers the opposite is being rumored. Yes, a streaming subscription price drop is being considered. Really.
Reuters is reporting that Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery’s studios and streaming unit could have a positive knock-on effect for subscribers of two major streaming services.
Quoting “two people familiar with the proposal”, the deal could see Netflix and HBO Max bundled together, for a lower combined cost than the services are separately.
The sources also noted that “the vast majority of Netflix customers also subscribe to HBO Max”, which would make any reduction in price a serious win for viewers.
How much do Netflix and HBO Max currently cost?
Currently, Netflix costs $7.99 p/m for the ad-supported plan, or $17.99 p/m for the ad-free, standard plan. If you want access to Ultra HD resolution, the ability to stream on four devices at once, and have two additional member slots, the premium plan is $24.99 p/m.
Meanwhile HBO Max is $10.99 p/m with ads, and $18.49 p/m for its ad-free standard plan, while the premium plan will set you back $22.99 p/m.
If you opted for the ad-free standard plans for both services, you’re looking at a monthly bill of $36.48, while a premium subscription to both HBO Max and Netflix rockets that price to $47.98.
There’s no guarantee this happens, as Netflix’s offer is up against other bidders (chiefly Paramount Skydance and Comcast), so it will need to be successful here before any bundle discounts can actually be made available.
If you already have a Netflix subscription, we’ve rounded up what’s new on Netflix, as well as the best Netflix movies and best Netflix shows you need to watch.