The hugely popular online video site Hulu is preparing to introduce a subscription fee in order to watch much of its content. The site has gained a lot of attention in the US by providing free access to shows like Family Guy using advertising to finance the site, but that could all about to change. According to the Direct Traffic Media website Hulu are planning on putting up a paywall behind which most of its extensive back catologue will be placed.
Apparently they intend to continue offering a free five-day catch-up service, but those wanting to access episodes older than that would need to subscribe for it. The current proposal is a $9.95 per month fee.
This is an interesting move, and one that could be very difficult for Hulu to successfully pull off. Would you be prepared to pay for the service in order to continue to be able to watch shows like Family Guy on it?
andy on Saturday April 24, 2010 at 04:09:31 PM said:
they should allow people in other countries (such as the UK…) to watch if they pay. that would be freakin sweeet
Bob on Sunday April 25, 2010 at 12:57:31 AM said:
Paying to view a program widely available everywhere else is nonsense, for one the site isnt famous enough to command a fee and another reason is simply that it will drive away much of the loyal fan base.
Patrik on Sunday April 25, 2010 at 04:46:12 AM said:
Why would i? i can get it for free of any torrent site in better resolution and no ad’s! plus i can send it to my media extender and watch it on my TV! i would never pay to watch a show on my computer.
Bas on Sunday April 25, 2010 at 04:48:14 PM said:
Wow, 9,95 each month is a lot! Just imagine how much money they will make with that.
If it would be 9,95 for a year, that would be reasonable, but for one single month is insane. If they introduce this subscription fee, it will definitely be the end of Hulu, even with the free five-day most recent episodes, because people will go to other sites like watchfamilyguyonline (or something like that) and therefor their advert income will decrease.
Andrew on Wednesday April 28, 2010 at 07:39:22 PM said:
The 9.95$ fee is for all episodes of a show. Everyone will still see the 5 Trailing episodes, however, that’s all we’ll get from each show.