AMC Networks will introduce a new and cheaper ad-supported AMC Plus plan later this year. AMC Plus is not exactly the most expensive subscription around, but considering it is more of a niche streaming service, it may have issues trying to attract a broad enough subscriber base at its current price and with so much competition.
In theory, a cheaper, ad-supported plan may help to address this issue. Streaming services have continually looked towards ads as a way to increase users, with even HBO Max, Disney Plus and Netflix having all now launched discounted ad-free plans. Not to mention, the rise of free streaming services continually seems to reinforce the benefits of the ‘with ads’ model.
It now seems as though AMC Plus is ready to get in on the action and benefit from a ‘with and without ads’ strategy. AMC Networks has confirmed that it plans plan to launch a new ad-supported tier and at a cheaper price than its existing subscription option.
While the announcement does not explain when the new subscription is due to become available, AMC does state that it will go live by October. In the meantime, the company plans to provide a more formal introduction of the ad-supported plan on Tuesday evening during its Upfront 2023 presentation.
One uncertainty right now is how much cheaper an ad-supported AMC Plus plan will be. Considering the current cost of an AMC Plus subscription is $6.99 per month, one might expect an ad-free version to cost no more than $4.99 per month. $5 does seem to be the price that many other services have settled on for their ad-supported tiers.
As a reminder, AMC Plus offers access to more than just AMC content, as a subscription also includes access to content from IFC Films Unlimited, Sundance Now, and Shudder. All of which does mean that a cheaper ad-supported plan would offer even more value.
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