Netflix has selected Microsoft as its global advertising technology and sales partner.
In a statement, Netflix said that “Microsoft has the proven ability to support all our advertising needs as we work together to build a new ad-supported offering. More importantly, Microsoft offered the flexibility to innovate over time on both the technology and sales side, as well as strong privacy protections for our members”.
It added: “It’s very early days and we have much to work through. But our long-term goal is clear. More choice for consumers and a premium, better-than-linear TV brand experience for advertisers. We’re excited to work with Microsoft as we bring this new service to life”.
In April Netflix announced that it will introduce a new lower priced ad-supported subscription plan for consumers, in addition to its existing ads-free basic, standard and premium plans.
Broadband TV News believes that with this latest announcement and report that it is renegotiating contracts with Hollywood studios, the launch of an ad-support tier by Netflix has moved significantly closer.