You might have heard that Netflix is planning to crack down on password-sharing among its U.S. subscribers this summer. But what about other streaming services? How do they approach password-sharing policy? Let’s dive into this topic and find out!

Maximizing Revenue Streams from Current Subscribers

Netflix was planning to introduce its paid password-sharing system at the end of March 2023 but announced a delay until sometime between April and June. It’s not surprising that Netflix’s decision to change its policy has sparked negative reactions among its users. In a letter to shareholders, Netflix revealed that its new “paid sharing” feature, which allows customers to share their account with people outside their household for a fee, had resulted in a “cancel reaction” after it was launched in Canada. This indicates that Netflix may face significant backlash too, once it introduces the paid password-sharing system in the U.S.

The move to crack down on password-sharing marks a significant change for Netflix. Taking into account that Netflix previously encouraged users to share passwords as one of the strategies to attract more users. That’s why this sudden change might seem controversial. However, with the rise of new streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu, Netflix is now looking to make more money from its existing subscribers.

While this shift in policy may benefit the company financially, it remains to be seen how users will react to the change. As subscribers weigh their options, you may wonder how other streaming services handle the issue of password sharing.

While many streaming services discourage password sharing, some take a more lenient approach. These services allow multiple users to log into the same account from different devices or locations, but they still advise against it. Ultimately, the decision to share passwords is up to the individual user, but it’s important to note that there may be consequences if caught. So how do different video-on-demand (VOD) streaming platforms handle password sharing?  Let’s start with HBO Max.

HBO Max

HBO Max  allows users to share their account with anyone within their household. This means that family members and roommates can split the cost of one account, rather than paying for separate subscriptions. However, there are limits to how many people can stream at once. HBO Max only allows three simultaneous streams on one account.  In effect, larger households may need a second subscription. HBO Max forbids password sharing outside of the household but hasn’t enforced the rule in the past.

So if you are sharing HBO Max within your household, you can create up to five user profiles on one account, and stream on three devices at once. It means that each person can have their own watchlist and can play content at their own pace. Even if they’re watching the same shows as their roommates.

Disney Plus

Disney Plus is a bit more lenient on password sharing compared to Netflix and HBO Max. When you sign up for Disney Plus, you can create up to seven profiles, which means that each member of your household can have their own personalized Disney Plus experience.

Also, you can even share your account with extended family or friends outside of your household. However, it’s important to note that simultaneous streams are limited to four. So if a fifth device tries to connect while the other four are already streaming something, they’ll see an error message with the code telling to stop streaming on another device to continue watching.

Hulu

Hulu, owned by Disney, allows its subscribers to share their account with other people, but there is a limit. The platform allows to create six user accounts and stream video on demand on up to two devices at the same time. While this might seem like a restriction, it actually makes Hulu’s pricing more competitive, as it’s less expensive than other streaming services. However, if you are living in the same household as other users, and you need a feature that allows for unlimited screens within the household, you can get a more expensive plan called Hulu + Live TV.

To prevent password sharing outside of the household, Hulu uses device location tracking. This means you may not be able to access the content when travelling outside your region. While this might be inconvenient for some users, it’s a way for Hulu to ensure that subscribers are not sharing their account information with others who live outside their household.

Apple TV

Like Hulu, Apple TV also allows up to six people to share one account through the Family Sharing feature. This means that families can split the cost of one subscription, making it more affordable. Each person can create their own profile, which allows for personalized recommendations based on individual viewing habits.

Moreover, Apple TV enables simultaneous streaming on up to six devices, which makes it perfect for larger households or families with multiple devices. However, Apple TV does not have any specific policies regarding password sharing outside of the household.

Last Words on Password Sharing

Sharing passwords with others who are not part of your household is a common practice among streaming service users. However, it’s essential to know that not all companies officially allow or encourage this. Different streaming services have different policies regarding password sharing, and some may even have restrictions or guidelines against it.

Before choosing a streaming service to use or sharing your account with others, it’s important to research and explore the specific policies of each service. This can help you find services that offer features that make sharing accounts within a household more affordable and accessible. Some services may have limitations on the number of devices that can stream content simultaneously.

Ultimately, the decision to share passwords is yours to make. But, it’s crucial to be aware of any policies or guidelines that may be in place to ensure that you’re using the services in a way that aligns with their values and expectations.