This week, we learned about Netflix’s latest tests to curb the practice of password-sharing. In other streaming news, Amazon announced a major milestone in its deal to buy MGM, and we learned more about the fates of HBO Max and Discovery+ as their own merger looms.
Here’s what happened in the world of cord cutting and streaming.
Breaking News
Here are some of the top streaming stories from the past week.
Netflix is Testing Charging Subscribers for Password Sharing
Netflix is testing a pair of new options for those looking to share their passwords outside of their homes. The tests include a feature that lets you pay to add a sub-account for less than a standard monthly rate.
Check out Netflix’s latest attempts to curb password-sharing here.
YouTube TV is Testing a New Guide as it Gears Up for More Interface Improvements
Some YouTube TV users are reporting tweaks to the live TV streaming service’s interface, possibly as part of improvements announced earlier this year. So far, some Chromecast with Google TV and Roku users seem to have access, but it’s possible the updates will spread to more devices later.
Learn more about the latest YouTube TV menu tweaks here.
Latest Apple TV Adds Captive Portal Support
The newest version of Apple’s tvOS software is officially out in the wild and it brings with it some interesting new features. The biggest addition is support for captive portals, which should help travelers stream on the road.
See what’s new in tvOS 15.4 here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
Amazon Has Acquired MGM for $8.5 Billion
This week, Amazon announced that it’s officially closed a deal to acquire MGM for $8.5 billion. The deal gives Amazon access to thousands of films and TV episodes that could pop up on the company’s streaming platforms soon.
Read more about Amazon’s big acquisition here.
HBO Max and Discovery+ Will Be Combined With WarnerMedia Discovery Merger
With WarnerMedia and Discovery headed for a merger, it looks like their respective streaming services could be combining as well. Discovery confirmed plans to merge HBO Max and Discovery+ at some point.
See what the companies have planned for their streaming services here.
WNBA League Pass to Increase Price for the First Time Since Launch
The WNBA’s League Pass service is upping its price for the first time since its 2016 launch. The service lets fans stream dozens of games from across the league during the season, or pare it down to follow a single team.
Check out the new pricing on the WNBA’s League Pass here.
Hulu + Live is Adding Unlimited DVR for All Subscribers on April 13
Hulu announced it’s adding unlimited DVR storage for anyone subscribing to its Hulu with Live TV service. Standard plans used to come with 50 hours of storage, with more available as an add-on, but this pending upgrade makes the service’s DVR feature more competitive with rivals.
Learn more about Hulu’s latest changes here.
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