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Netflix cracks down on password sharing in the UAE

Netflix is taking a firm stand against users sharing passwords to split the cost of streaming TV and movies in the UAE. The popular subscription service is intensifying efforts to block password sharing between multiple households, aiming to deter non-paying customers from accessing its streaming content without a valid subscription.

Netflix Introduction of “Paid Sharing” Rules

Earlier this year, Netflix implemented “paid sharing” rules globally, making the crackdown on password sharing a critical priority for the company. While UAE subscribers and password sharers have not received alerts yet, Netflix is expected to take action soon to enforce the password-sharing ban.

Netflix Statement on Account Sharing

In a recent statement, Netflix announced its plans to address account sharing between households in nearly all of the remaining countries it operates in. However, the streaming giant clarified that it will not offer an additional member option in these markets due to recent price reductions and the relatively low penetration of its service in these regions.

Encouraging Individual Account Sign-Ups

Netflix emphasizes that users who are not part of the same household must sign up for their own accounts to access the streaming service. With over 238 million subscribers worldwide and an estimated 100 million households sharing passwords, Netflix’s efforts to curb password sharing reflect its commitment to maintaining a fair and sustainable business model.

Global Success and Growth

Despite the crackdown on password sharing, Netflix continues to thrive globally. The company recently added 5.9 million new subscribers in the past three months, surpassing expectations. With quarterly reports showing $1.8 billion in profit on revenues of $8.3 billion between April and June, Netflix’s success remains evident. As it forges ahead, the company remains dedicated to providing high-quality streaming content while ensuring fair usage practices across its vast subscriber base.

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OTT
by Vivek Kumar

BBH India, the creative agency for CaratLane, has conceptualised and created a heartwarming Pujo film that positions Durga Puja as the perfect moment to pop the question. At the heart of the film is CaratLane’s elegant proposal ring, brought alive by BBH India as the ultimate symbol of commitment – timed to perfection with the emotional crescendo of Pujo. Titled ‘Maayer Aashirbaad’, the film is directed by award-winning filmmaker Bauddhayan Mukherji of Little Lamb Films, with music composed by legendary Debojyoti Mishra. It is a sensory delight that blends timeless Rabindra Sangeet with folk melodies, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and fresh. Mekhla Dasgupta and Chirantan Banerjee’s voices breathe life into Mishra’s score. The music becomes the emotional engine of a slowly unfolding love story between two protagonists, played by actors Ayoshi Talukdar and Subhrojit Saha, whose chemistry lights up the screen with playful intensity. Spanning the key days of Pujo from Shoshthi to Doshomi, the film captures iconic moments like Anjali, Dhunuchi Naach, and Bhog, each scene steeped in the colour, rhythm, and emotion of Bengal’s most cherished celebration.  The storytelling unfolds entirely through music. The girl drops playful hints of her desire for commitment while the boy responds with lighthearted mischief. The lyrics themselves become a conversation, questions and answers set to melody. The narrative builds gently, as days of festivity and moments of romance gather weight, until it culminates in a poignant proposal during Doshomi’s shindoor khela, where the male lead goes down on one knee and presents the CaratLane proposal ring, an unforgettable moment framed by tradition and tenderness. Parikshit Bhattaccharya, Chief Creative Officer, BBH India, said, “Durga Pujo is already a love story – between people, rituals, and memories. We wanted to frame it as the perfect backdrop for one more love story, and the CaratLane proposal ring became the natural climax. At BBH India, we believe powerful cultural truths make for the most resonant brand storytelling, and that’s exactly what this campaign celebrates. It weaves cultural nostalgia with feel-good romance to break away from the usual format of jewellery advertising.”According to Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director, CaratLane, “The vision behind the campaign was to connect with people on a deeper, more personal level. “Love, romance and proposal are matters of the heart. We believe a proposal comes from the heart, on your own terms, in your own time, free flowing, and spontaneous—like an unforgettable melody. The film ‘Maayer Aashirbaad’ attempts to capture that beautifully honest moment cinematically in the backdrop of Durga Pujo—the biggest event in Bengal. The medley of Rabindra Sangeet and folk melodies truly brings this story to life. Just to say that the most meaningful moments of love are simple, sincere, and made to last.”

OTT
by Vivek Kumar

Following the phenomenal success of its previous seasons, the much-loved series Panchayat returned with Season 4 on June 24 and has already solidified its standing as both a local and global sensation. The latest season recorded the strongest opening, surpassing all previous seasons in viewership, showcasing its wide appeal and gripping narrative. On launch day, Panchayat Season 4 trended among the Top 10 titles in over 42 countries including the USA, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and UAE among others, and was streamed in more than 180 countries during its launch week, highlighting its growing footprint. In India, it has been trending at #1 in India and was streamed across 95% of the country’s pin codes in the first week, reaffirming its deep-rooted popularity. Riding on the overwhelming response to Season 4, Prime Video has confirmed that Season 5 is already in development and will premiere in 2026. Since its debut on Prime Video in 2018, Panchayat has consistently captured hearts and earned critical acclaim. Season 2 was honored with the inaugural Best Web Series (OTT) Award at the 54th International Film Festival of India in 2023. With Season 4 delivering the biggest opening for the series yet, Panchayat continues to scale new heights, resonating deeply with audiences in India and around the world. “We are absolutely delighted with the phenomenal response to Panchayat Season 4, which has further elevated the series’ stature and set new benchmarks for authentic storytelling,” said Manish Menghani, Director & Head – Content Licensing, Prime Video India. “The season’s exceptional viewership across India and in over 180 countries within its launch week is a testament to its universal appeal and deep cultural resonance. With its heartfelt narrative and relatable characters, Panchayat has evolved into a global phenomenon, transcending borders and touching audiences with its warmth, simplicity, and authenticity. This milestone not only reflects the enduring love for the series but also reinforces the growing global appetite for rooted, Indian stories. We’re excited to share that work has already begun on Season 5, and we look forward to continuing the journey of Phulera and its beloved characters.” “It has been a truly extraordinary journey collaborating with Prime Video to bring Panchayat to life and witness its incredible growth over the years,” said Vijay Koshy, President, The Viral Fever (TVF). “This series holds a special place in our hearts, as it beautifully captures the charm, humor, and nuances of rural India, celebrating the power of simple, human storytelling. Panchayat reflects the shared vision and values we hold with Prime Video: to tell meaningful, relatable stories that resonate with audiences across geographies. We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming love Season 4 has received—not just from viewers across India, but from audiences around the world. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible cast and crew whose passion and dedication made this journey possible, and to the fans whose unwavering support continues to inspire us. We’re excited for what lies ahead and look forward to bringing Season 5 to audiences …

by Livemint

A few weeks ago, Netflix confirmed that it used generative AI for the first time ever in a TV show. Shortly after, the streaming giant shared a set of guidelines with its creators for promoting the responsible and transparent use of new technology while avoiding legal trouble. In a blog post about the new guidelines, Netflix said, “Generative AI tools (GenAI) that allow users to rapidly generate new and creatively unique media (video, sound, text, and image) are increasingly being used across creative workflows in Content Production.” “At… Source link