"Streaming stops feeling infinite": What subscribers can expect in 2026

"We're far from streaming's original promise: instant access to beloved and undiscovered titles without the burden of ads, bundled services, or price gouging that have long been associated with cable. Still, every year we get more dependent on streaming for entertainment. Despite streaming services' flaws, many of us are bound to keep subscribing to at least one service next year. Here's what we can expect in 2026 and beyond."

"There's virtually no hope of streaming subscription prices plateauing in 2026. Streaming companies continue to face challenges as content production and licensing costs rise, and it's often easier to get current customers to pay slightly more than to acquire new subscribers. Meanwhile, many streaming companies are still struggling with profitability and revenue after spending years focusing on winning subscribers with content."

"People who pay extra to stream without ads are the most likely to see price bumps as streaming companies continue pushing customers toward ad-based tiers. Charging more for "premium" features-such as 4K streaming, simultaneous streams, or offline downloads-offers another way for streaming companies to boost revenue without implementing broad price hikes that risk provoking customer outrage. Subscribers can expect streaming prices to get "more menu-like next year," said Michael Goodman, director of entertainment research at Parks Associates."

Streaming services have not delivered the original promise of instant, ad-free access and are becoming more essential to consumers. Subscription prices are unlikely to plateau in 2026 as content production and licensing costs rise and companies prefer raising prices over acquiring new subscribers. Ad-free tiers are most likely to see price increases while companies push customers toward ad-supported plans. Providers will monetize "premium" features like 4K, simultaneous streams, and downloads to boost revenue. Prices will become more menu-like, offering configurable options instead of broad hikes. Profitability pressures are driving these strategies.

Read at Ars Technica