Is it time to reconsider streaming services?

Netflix seems to be  phasing out its Basic subscription plan, according to a report from at least in Canada and the UK. Users have begun receiving on-screen messages urging them to upgrade to a higher tier plan.
The message reportedly informs users that their "last day to watch Netflix is July 13" and prompts them to select a new plan to continue streaming. This change comes after Netflix announced during an earnings call earlier this year that they planned to eliminate the Basic plan, starting with Canada and the UK. I guess we will be next.

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Previously, Netflix had announced in 2023 that new subscribers would no longer be offered the ad-free Basic plan. However, existing Basic plan subscribers were unaffected - until now. This move eliminates the most affordable ad-free option for viewers.
The elimination of the Basic plan pushes users towards more expensive tiers, some of which ALSO include ads. The Standard With Ads plan, launched in 2022, allows streaming on two devices but lacks the ability to download content offline or add additional profiles. This plan also comes with some content restrictions due to licensing.
Interestingly, this decision by Netflix seems to follow a similar move by Amazon Prime Video which converted all Prime Video accounts to an ad-supported model. - bang - just like that! The financial impact of this change on Netflix is yet to be seen. However, the company did see a significant increase in subscriptions after cracking down on password sharing in 2023.
It seems we can’t do without our move and tv series streaming, so they will likely get away with it. I guess the others will follow suit.
So, where’s the tip and trick you might ask?
I have 2:

1. https://www.whistleout.com.au/PayTV Check out the Oz options and consider changing over to other services. You can always go back later - they will always take your money 🙂
   
2. Check out the Free to air options on replay TV: 7 Plus, 9 Now, 10 Play, ABCiView, SBS On Demand. Install the apps and have a browser.