Netflix to sharply increase prices for DVDs, streaming

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RALEIGH, N.C. — Netflix Inc. has announced they are
changing their subscription plan in a way that sharply increases the
monthly rate for those wanting both DVD rentals by mail and the
company’s streaming content.

Currently, Netflix charges $9.99 per month for
unlimited DVD rentals by mail, with one DVD rented at a time, plus
unlimited streaming content. Customers access streaming content online,
through gaming consoles such as Sony’s PlayStation or Nintendo’s Wii, or
via mobile devices.

The new plan, which takes effect for current
subscribers on Sept. 1, charges $7.99 per month for DVDs only and an
additional $7.99 for streaming. New subscribers get the new rates
immediately.

Netflix said the old plan didn’t “make great financial sense” for them.

Unsurprisingly, the announcement has prompted
criticism from current subscribers, who say they wouldn’t mind paying
more for the instant content if Netflix’s streaming catalog were larger.

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