Netflix has reported a remarkable increase in subscribers, gaining 23 million new users in 2025 despite rising prices and the introduction of ad tiers. By the end of the fiscal year, total subscriptions reached 325 million, and Netflix's revenues soared to $45.2 billion, marking a 16% increase from the previous year. This surge comes as the company prepares for a potential $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, which co-CEO Ted Sarandos indicated would keep WB films in theaters for 45 days. Additionally, Netflix is expanding its use of AI for various operations, including subtitle localization and ad customization, to enhance the viewer experience.

How did Netflix manage to gain so many new subscribers in 2025?

Netflix's subscriber growth in 2025 can be attributed to its successful content strategy, featuring popular series and films such as "Stranger Things" and new genres like K-Pop Demon Hunters. Despite implementing price increases and ad tiers, the quality and variety of content have kept audiences engaged, leading to an increase in viewership hours and overall subscriber numbers.

Netflix, founded in 1997, revolutionized how audiences consume entertainment by transitioning from DVD rental to streaming services. As one of the largest platforms globally, it has spent billions on original films and series, aiming to maintain its competitive edge against competitors like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. This substantial growth and strategic acquisitions highlight Netflix's commitment to enhancing its offerings and solidifying its position in the entertainment industry.