Netflix releases update on password sharing

Password sharing has become a trend for people who want to watch their favorite series and movies on Netflix using another person’s account. But everything will change soon.

The streaming service giant is implementing a plan to crack down on password sharing, giving customers more control over who can access their accounts. Netflix noted on its website that more than 100 million households share accounts.

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Netflix has not said what action it will take if subscribers continue to share accounts outside of their family. In a conference call with investors in January, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters said the company is trying to be thoughtful and gradual in its rollout, according to The Associated Press.

In a post on its website, Netflix said it introduced paid sharing in Canada, New Zealand, Portugal and Spain on Wednesday. It has previously been introduced to several Latin American markets.

While Netflix hasn’t said when the paid sharing will roll out to other countries, some version of the plan is expected to roll out to the US in the next few weeks. The AP notes that roughly a third of Netflix’s subscribers live in the US and Canada.

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Netflix has listed new steps for customers to control who gets access to their accounts. These new updates set your primary location, manage account and device access, migrate your profile, watch while you travel, and add additional users to your streaming plan.

Who can access your Netflix account?

Netflix explains on its website that this will help customers set up a primary location, meaning that anyone who lives in their home can use their Netflix account.

How does Netflix help customers manage their accounts and devices?

The company says that members can now manage access to their account on a new Netflix access and device control page.

In addition, Netflix will allow customers to transfer their profile to a new account they pay for to keep their browsing history, playlists, saved games and personalized recommendations.

Is there a change in watching Netflix if you are traveling?

According to the website, Netflix subscribers can still watch shows on their devices or sign in to watch programs on a new TV in a hotel or rental property.

Can I add more people to my Netflix account?

People with a standard or premium plan are in more countries, including Canada, New Zealand, Portugal and Spain, according to the new Netflix password updates. A Netflix subscriber can add an additional “sub account” for up to two people who do not live with them. Additional participants receive a profile, login and password, as well as personalized recommendations.

The cost of adding additional people to an account varies by country. This is CAD 7.99 per person per month in Canada, New Zealand, 7.99 New Zealand dollars, 3.99 euros in Portugal and 5.99 euros in Spain.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. This story was reported from Washington, DC.