Netflix has recently implemented new user identification systems to prevent account sharing. The deadline for setting a primary location ended on February 21st, meaning that blocking should start happening any day now. Many users may find that they are no longer able to access their account. However, Netflix has created a new plan to accommodate this new strategy: additional subscriptions to the main account. If you’re feeling confused, don’t worry – we’ve got all your frequently asked questions about sharing a Netflix account covered in this article.
Why has Netflix stopped allowing account sharing?
According to Netflix’s website, their accounts are intended for sharing within the same accommodation, which means between people who live with the account holder.
How does Netflix determine the same household and primary location?
To identify if a device logged into your account is connected to your primary location, Netflix uses information like IP addresses, device identifiers, and account activity. The platform indicates on its official page that Netflix will not collect GPS data to try and determine the exact location of devices. Instead, they will use the device’s IP address or the Netflix application to determine the general location, such as city, state/province, and zip code.
Can I use Netflix while away from home or traveling?
As mentioned earlier, Netflix will know that you are using it outside of your primary location based on your IP address, but it will also apparently identify your device. However, as long as it’s used timely and without continuous use outside of the location, Netflix will not block the account, and you can view content without problems. The maximum period to use Netflix outside of the home is generally less than one month, so if it’s a long trip, you’ll need to change your primary location.
What if I want to share an account with someone who doesn’t live with me?
People who don’t live with you will need to sign up and create their own Netflix account to watch content. However, in some countries like Spain, you can purchase an additional subscription and add it to your account.
What is an additional subscriber?
In some countries like Spain, account holders with a Standard or Premium plan can share Netflix with one (Standard) or two (Premium) people who they don’t live with by adding them as an additional follower to their account. Keep in mind:
- The account holder who invited the additional subscriber to join Netflix will need to approve and pay for their sub-account.
- The additional subscriber must create their sub-account in the same country in which the account holder created theirs.
- Additional subscribers cannot be added to plans with Netflix included or third-party billed accounts.
How much does an additional subscription cost and who should pay for it?
Each additional profile added to the main account has a cost of 5.99 euros per month. This profile functions as a sub-account connected to the main account and is cheaper than hiring Netflix independently. The additional cost of the subscription will be added to the payment of the main account. The owner of the Standard or Premium subscription will be the one to bear the cost. However, this does not mean that the additional subscriber cannot pay for the subscription themselves, with the approval of the main manager.
Does the additional subscriber have to share a password and username with the main account?
The additional subscriber will have their own username and password. Although it must be associated with the main account, it will be completely independent, and they will not be able to access Home/Primary Location profiles.
How many profiles and simultaneous screens can be used with and without an additional subscription?
Members of the household/primary location will be able to use the same number of screens your plan supports, which is two screens for the standard plan and four screens for the premium. However, additional subscriptions can only have one concurrent screen.