Netflix has signed a “first-of-its-kind” agreement with Jio Platforms, India’s largest telecom provider, to combine the streaming service with the carrier’s two pay-as-you-go plans.
This is as the American streaming platform works to increase its subscriber base in the crucial Asian market.
“We are thrilled to expand our relationship with Jio. Over the years, we have launched a variety of successful local shows, documentaries and films which have been loved by audiences across India. Our collection of must watch stories is growing and our new prepaid bundle partnership with Jio will give more customers access to this exciting line-up of Indian content as well as some incredible stories from around the world,” Tony Zameczkowski, Vice President of APAC Partnerships for Netflix, said in a statement.
According to announcements made on Friday by both firms, Jio’s 1,099 rupee ($13.2) plan includes a mobile-only Netflix subscription, while the 1,499 rupee ($18) plan offers Netflix Basic.
The $18 package delivers 3GB of daily 5G data, while the $13.2 plan offers 2GB. Both options offer limitless free voice calls and are good for 84 days.
Reliance stated that this is the first time that Netflix has collaborated with an Indian telecom provider to offer the streaming service on a prepaid, or pay-as-you-go, plan.
A Netflix subscription is also available with the carrier’s postpaid and fibre plans thanks to an existing collaboration between the two businesses. In India, pay-as-you-go plans are used by the great majority of consumers instead of the standard monthly subscriptions found in most developed economies to top up their phones.
The companies’ growing relationship highlights the special strategy Netflix employs in India, where average revenue per member is significantly lower than in the US and UK.
