Netflix will show generative AI ads midway through streams in 2026

Netflix is expanding its ad offerings by testing interactive mid-roll ads and pause ads that leverage generative AI, signaling a push to attract more subscribers willing to watch longer content for lower prices. The platform aims to introduce these new ad types starting in 2026, alongside its existing ad-supported tier, which now boasts over 94 million subscribers—a significant increase from 34 percent growth since November 2022. Half of Netflix's new subscribers opt for the $8 monthly ad-supported plan, a strategy aimed at balancing revenue with viewer preferences.