After Netflix , Disney+ Hotstar Mulls Crackdown on Password Sharing Among Premium Subscribers

In a move that follows the footsteps of Netflix, Disney Hotstar, one of India's leading streaming platforms, is reportedly considering implementing a new policy to limit password sharing among its premium subscribers. This decision aims to address the issue of unauthorized account access and maintain fair usage of premium services. Just like its global counterpart, Disney, in May, introduced a similar policy in more than 100 countries, prompting subscribers to pay an additional fee if they wished to share their passwords beyond their households. This article delves into the details of this potential policy change by Disney Hotstar and explores the significant popularity of streaming platforms in India.

Tackling Password Sharing

📰#Justin: After Netflix, Disney Hotstar plans to crackdown the password sharing in India. 😢What are your thoughts on the same? 🤔Comment below.

— TrakinTech (@TrakinTech) July 28, 2023

Password sharing has become a pressing concern for streaming services, as it undermines potential revenue streams and affects content creators' compensation. Reports suggest that Disney Hotstar has taken notice of this issue and is actively working on a policy to address it. As per the new proposal, premium subscribers will be limited to logging in from a maximum of four devices per account. This restriction is aimed at curbing unauthorized access to premium content and creating a more equitable user experience.

Current Scenario in India

Disney Hotstar to clamp down on password sharing in India: Report https://t.co/KkWSM2SaOM pic.twitter.com/9h35Y8TXpb

— OnlyTech (@onlytechcom) July 28, 2023

Presently, premium Disney Hotstar accounts in India permit logins on up to 10 devices. However, as part of internal testing, the platform has reduced this limit to just four devices. While the policy is not yet officially implemented for all users, indications point toward its potential extension to all premium accounts in the future. The move signals a shift in the company's approach toward ensuring that each account is used solely by legitimate users, promoting a more responsible usage of its services.

The Streaming Market in India

The rise of streaming platforms in India has been nothing short of phenomenal. Companies like Disney, Netflix, Amazon, and JioCinema have captured the imagination of millions of users in the country, offering a wide array of content catering to diverse tastes. According to projections by Media Partners Asia, the Indian streaming market could grow to a staggering $7 billion industry by 2027, underlining the vast potential for growth and profitability.

Disney Hotstar Leading the Way

In India, this will definitely result in the decline of their revenues. They should continue with the password sharing or revamp their subscription plans like Amazon Prime or Disney Plus Hotstar.

— Karan Raj (@karanraj_11) July 21, 2023

In the fiercely competitive streaming market in India, Disney Hotstar has emerged as a frontrunner. The platform currently boasts an impressive 50 million subscribers, a testament to its compelling content library and attractive subscription offerings. Research conducted by Media Partners Asia covering the period between January 2022 and March 2023 further solidifies Disney Hotstar's dominant position, capturing a remarkable 38% of the viewership share. With such a strong market presence, the platform's decision to restrict password sharing is likely to have a significant impact on the overall streaming landscape in the country.

- PTC PUNJABI