technology

Ad-free streaming is a luxury now

The Verge·June 28, 2026

Streaming services were initially a departure from traditional cable, offering on-demand content without commercial breaks at an affordable price. When Netflix launched its standalone streaming service in 2010, it cost just $7.99 per month and was ad-free. Similarly, Amazon's Prime Video also provided ad-free streaming at a comparable price. Now, ad-free streaming has become a luxury, with many services introducing ads to reduce costs for consumers.

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