New Netflix Policy Charges Users for Thinking About Watching a Show
- Jacob Howard
- Feb 8
- 2 min read
By Hugh Betta, Senior Streaming Correspondent
LOS GATOS, CA — In a move that has both stunned and bankrupted subscribers, Netflix has unveiled a controversial new policy that charges users simply for thinking about watching a show.
The streaming giant, already notorious for cracking down on password sharing and introducing ad-supported tiers, says this latest feature is designed to “maximize revenue while further reducing the number of people who actually enjoy our service.”
“We noticed people spending hours just browsing without committing, and that’s lost potential revenue,” explained Netflix CFO Penny Pincher. “Now, even if you don’t watch anything, we’ll still get paid. It’s just good business.”
How the Thought Fee Works
Under the new policy, Netflix has patented a revolutionary AI-driven algorithm that detects when a user is considering watching a show.
• Hesitate on a title for more than 3 seconds? $0.99 charge.
• Hover over a thumbnail? $1.50.
• Read the description? $2.00, whether or not you watch.
• Add something to your list? $3.99—because we all know you’re never actually watching it.
• Think about cancelling Netflix? Immediate $5.99 penalty for even entertaining the idea.
Subscribers have already reported mysterious charges appearing on their accounts, with one Houston resident claiming she was billed $75 after “merely wondering if ‘Bridgerton’ was worth it.”
User Backlash and Netflix’s Response
Social media exploded with outrage as users shared their horror stories of unexpected charges.
“I sat down to decide between ‘Stranger Things’ and ‘Squid Game’ and got billed $15 before I even clicked anything,” tweeted @StreamQueen. “Netflix is literally robbing us in real time.”
In response, Netflix released a statement saying users “should be honored” to support the platform in “new and exciting financial ways.” CEO Reed Hastings added that the policy was “inspired by airlines and Ticketmaster,” pioneers in charging people for literally nothing.
Where Does It End?
Industry experts warn that other streaming services may follow suit, with rumors that Disney+ is testing a “pay-per-smile” policy and HBO Max exploring “nostalgia surcharges” for rewatching old favorites.
At press time, Netflix had accidentally billed itself $10 billion after its own executives spent too much time debating whether to renew a show.
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