Netflix brings back free trials after six years as Disney+ explores free streaming content | Today’s news
Netflix has quietly reintroduced free trials for eligible new subscribers in a number of countries, marking the streaming giant’s first such offering in about six years, as competition for viewers in the subscription video market heats up.
Netflix is bringing back free trials after six years
The offer, which was first reported by Android Authority, is available in several regions in Europe and Asia, but does not currently apply to the UK or US.
Depending on the user’s location, the trial period ranges from seven to 30 days, with some users claiming to have accessed the maximum 30-day trial by clearing browser cookies or using an incognito browsing session before signing up.
Unlike previous promotions, eligible customers can reportedly opt for a Netflix Premium subscription during the trial period, which will give them free access to 4K resolution and HDR streaming for the duration of the offer. Users are required to select a subscription level and provide payment information upon registration. If the trial is not canceled before it expires, the service will automatically convert to a paid subscription.
Netflix’s support pages reflect the regional nature of the rollout. While the UK and US sites continue to say the company doesn’t offer free trials, support pages in other markets now say: “Netflix offers a limited free trial to eligible new members in certain countries. If you’re eligible, the free trial option will automatically appear during sign-up. If you don’t see it, the free trial option isn’t currently available for your location or device.”
The move marks a significant shift for Netflix, which ended its long-running free trial program in 2020 as the platform saw strong subscriber growth during the pandemic. The latest test appears to be aimed at encouraging new customers to sign up at a time when streaming services face increasing competition and consumers continue to weigh the cost of multiple subscriptions.
The renewed push comes as Disney+ is also reportedly evaluating ways to expand its audience. According to Business Insider, the company is considering making select titles available without a paywall in an effort to more effectively compete with free, ad-supported platforms like YouTube.
The proposal remains under internal discussion, with no confirmed timeline or details on what content might be included.
Neither company has announced broader changes beyond the reported trials and discussions, so the availability of both initiatives depends on future market testing and regional rollout decisions.