The world of streaming services has become increasingly complex, with numerous options available to consumers. Two popular services, Netflix and Starz, have been the subject of much speculation regarding their relationship and potential bundling options. In this article, we will delve into the details of whether Starz is free with Netflix, exploring the history of both services, their current offerings, and the various plans available to subscribers.
A Brief History of Netflix and Starz
To understand the current relationship between Netflix and Starz, it’s essential to examine their individual histories. Netflix was founded in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph, initially offering a DVD rental service by mail. The company shifted its focus to streaming media in 2007, revolutionizing the way people consume entertainment content.
Starz, on the other hand, was launched in 1994 as a premium cable channel, offering a range of movies and original programming. The network gained popularity with hit shows like “Outlander” and “Power,” and it expanded its reach through the launch of the Starz streaming app in 2016.
Netflix and Starz: A Complicated Past
In the past, Netflix and Starz had a licensing agreement that allowed Netflix to stream Starz content, including movies and original series. However, this agreement expired in 2012, and the two companies failed to reach a new deal. As a result, Starz content was removed from Netflix, leaving subscribers without access to popular shows like “Spartacus” and “Magic City.”
The Rise of Starz as a Standalone Service
Following the expiration of the Netflix agreement, Starz focused on developing its own streaming service. The Starz app was launched in 2016, offering subscribers access to a vast library of content, including movies, documentaries, and original series. The service has since expanded to include a range of features, such as offline viewing and multiple profiles.
Is Starz Free with Netflix?
So, is Starz free with Netflix? The answer is no. Starz is a separate streaming service that requires a subscription to access its content. While Netflix and Starz have collaborated on various projects, they are distinct services with different offerings and pricing plans.
Starz Pricing and Plans
Starz offers a range of pricing plans, including:
- Starz monthly subscription: $8.99 per month
- Starz annual subscription: $74.99 per year (equivalent to $6.25 per month)
- Starz add-on for Amazon Prime Video: $8.99 per month (available to Amazon Prime members)
Netflix Pricing and Plans
Netflix also offers various pricing plans, including:
- Netflix Basic Plan: $8.99 per month (SD, no HD)
- Netflix Standard Plan: $13.99 per month (HD, 2 screens)
- Netflix Premium Plan: $17.99 per month (HD/UHD, 4 screens)
Bundling Options and Promotions
While Starz is not free with Netflix, there are bundling options and promotions available that can provide subscribers with access to both services at a discounted rate. For example:
- Amazon Prime Video and Starz bundle: Amazon Prime members can add Starz to their subscription for $8.99 per month, which is a discounted rate compared to the standalone Starz subscription.
- Apple TV+ and Starz bundle: Apple TV+ subscribers can add Starz to their subscription for $4.99 per month, which is a discounted rate compared to the standalone Starz subscription.
Other Streaming Services and Starz
In addition to Netflix, Starz has partnered with other streaming services to offer its content. For example:
- Hulu and Starz: Hulu subscribers can add Starz to their subscription for $8.99 per month.
- Sling TV and Starz: Sling TV subscribers can add Starz to their subscription for $9 per month.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Starz is not free with Netflix. While the two services have collaborated on various projects, they are distinct services with different offerings and pricing plans. However, bundling options and promotions are available that can provide subscribers with access to both services at a discounted rate. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed about the various services and plans available to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
| Service | Pricing Plan | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Starz | Monthly subscription | $8.99 per month |
| Starz | Annual subscription | $74.99 per year (equivalent to $6.25 per month) |
| Netflix | Basic Plan | $8.99 per month (SD, no HD) |
| Netflix | Standard Plan | $13.99 per month (HD, 2 screens) |
| Netflix | Premium Plan | $17.99 per month (HD/UHD, 4 screens) |
By understanding the various pricing plans and bundling options available, you can make an informed decision about which services to subscribe to and how to get the most value for your money.
Is Starz free with Netflix?
Starz is not free with Netflix. While Netflix offers a wide variety of content, including some Starz original series, it does not include a free subscription to the Starz channel. To access Starz content, you need to subscribe to the Starz channel separately or through a streaming service that offers it.
However, some streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video, offer Starz as an add-on channel that can be subscribed to for an additional fee. This allows you to access Starz content through the streaming service, but it is not included with a standard Netflix subscription.
What is the difference between Starz and Netflix?
Starz and Netflix are two separate streaming services that offer different types of content. Starz is a premium cable channel that offers a range of original series, movies, and documentaries, with a focus on drama, comedy, and horror. Netflix, on the other hand, is a streaming service that offers a vast library of content, including TV shows, movies, and documentaries, with a focus on a wide range of genres.
While both services offer original content, the types of shows and movies they offer are different. Starz is known for its high-quality, critically acclaimed original series, such as “Outlander” and “Power,” while Netflix offers a broader range of content, including popular TV shows, movies, and documentaries.
Can I get Starz on Netflix?
No, you cannot get Starz on Netflix. While Netflix offers some Starz original series, such as “Outlander,” it does not offer a full subscription to the Starz channel. To access all Starz content, you need to subscribe to the Starz channel separately or through a streaming service that offers it.
However, Netflix does offer some Starz content, including some original series and movies. This content is available to Netflix subscribers as part of their standard subscription, but it is not the same as having a full subscription to the Starz channel.
How much does Starz cost?
The cost of Starz varies depending on the streaming service you use to access it. If you subscribe to Starz directly, the cost is typically around $8.99 per month. However, if you access Starz through a streaming service, such as Amazon Prime Video, the cost may be different.
For example, Amazon Prime Video offers Starz as an add-on channel for $8.99 per month, while Hulu offers Starz as an add-on channel for $8.99 per month. The cost of Starz may also vary depending on the country or region you are in.
Is Starz worth the cost?
Whether or not Starz is worth the cost depends on your personal preferences and viewing habits. If you enjoy the types of content that Starz offers, such as drama, comedy, and horror, and you want to access its original series and movies, then it may be worth the cost.
However, if you are on a tight budget or you prefer other types of content, such as documentaries or children’s programming, then Starz may not be worth the cost. It’s also worth considering that there are many other streaming services available that offer similar content at a lower cost.
Can I cancel Starz at any time?
Yes, you can cancel Starz at any time. If you subscribe to Starz directly, you can cancel your subscription online or through the Starz app. If you access Starz through a streaming service, such as Amazon Prime Video, you can cancel your subscription through the streaming service.
It’s worth noting that some streaming services may have different cancellation policies, so it’s a good idea to check the terms and conditions before you sign up. Additionally, if you cancel your Starz subscription, you will no longer have access to its content, so make sure you are aware of what you will be giving up.
What devices can I use to watch Starz?
You can watch Starz on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices. If you subscribe to Starz directly, you can watch its content through the Starz app, which is available on many devices.
If you access Starz through a streaming service, such as Amazon Prime Video, you can watch its content through the streaming service’s app. Some devices that support Starz include Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also watch Starz on your computer or laptop through the Starz website.