Netflix’s Ad-Supported Tier Surpasses 250M Monthly Viewers Globally
Netflix proudly announced on Wednesday, May 14, 2026, that its ad-supported subscription tier now engages more than 250 million monthly active viewers worldwide. This milestone marks a significant 31% increase from the 190 million reported in November 2025.
The streaming behemoth made the announcement during its annual advertising upfront presentation in New York. Here, it also unveiled plans to broaden the reach of the ad-supported tier to 15 additional countries in 2027. The list includes:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Colombia
- Denmark
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- The Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Peru
- The Philippines
- Poland
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Thailand
Netflix’s Advertising President, Amy Reinhard, informed advertisers that 60% of new sign-ups now opt for the ad-supported tier. Over 80% of ad-tier subscribers are actively watching content each week. The company is on track to double its advertising revenue for the second consecutive year, with projections reaching $3 billion in 2026, up from approximately $1.5 billion in 2025.
The growth comes as Netflix has increased subscription prices across all tiers in 2026. It has also invested heavily in content, with plans to spend $20 billion this year on programming. This includes scripted originals, live sports, and gaming. The company now boasts more than 325 million total paid subscribers globally and is openly targeting an audience approaching one billion customers.
Source: Variety