Netflix nears 100 million subscribers after record quarter

Netflix's stock increased by nine per cent yesterday, after announcing it had added seven million subscribers in the last three months of 2016, a new record for the company.

This puts Netflix's total worldwide subscriber count at 93.8 million - approximately six million of those coming from the UK - with the expectation that it will break 100 million by March 2017.

In contrast, Amazon Prime Video is estimated to have in the region of 60 million subscribers.

MORE: Apple is looking to bolster Apple Music with an original TV series

Netflix implemented a range of new features last year, from offline viewing to a VR app for Android phones (pictured), but many analysts believe that the primary factor for the increase in subscribers is the Netflix Original Series programming.

In October, Netflix said it would produce 1000 hours of original content in 2017, and has increased its content budget to $6bn (£4.9bn) to achieve it. In 2016, the company produced 600 hours of programming.

This rise in video streaming subscriptions is indicative of a general increase in streaming revenues. In 2016, streaming media overtook DVD sales for the first time - generating £1.3bn compared to the £894m from physical discs.

The increasing popularity of devices like the Google Chromecast and the Amazon Fire TV are helping to make streaming TV services more accessible.

Mainstream broadcasters such as the BBC appear to be following suit; BBC director-general Lord Hall said that he wants to "reinvent public broadcasting for a new generation", citing Netflix is an example of how iPlayer could improve.

One possibility is that the BBC will let viewers download entire series before they air on TV, rather than restricting viewers to the traditional linear TV schedule.

MORE: 4K streaming vs 4K Blu-ray vs Blu-ray – which is best?

Adam was a staff writer for What Hi-Fi?, reviewing consumer gadgets for online and print publication, as well as researching and producing features and advice pieces on new technology in the hi-fi industry. He has since worked for PC Mag as a contributing editor and is now a science and technology reporter for The Independent.

Latest in TV Streaming Services
Formula 1
US readers rejoice – F1's getting a key upgrade UK fans have enjoyed for ages
Cobra Kai
The 'perfect' and 'emotional' finale to Netflix's action-packed hit series is finally here
Emily in Paris
Netflix's UK prices are rising – here's how much more you'll pay
BBC
Netflix viewers may soon have to pay the BBC licence fee – and I think it's a good idea
A TV showing the new Now home page with Free Guy as the featured selection. Two people sitting in the foreground watching the TV in a modern living room environment.
Now TV to receive a major overhaul with new features and a fresh look later this month
DC League of Legends Super-Pets
This "cute superhero romp" from DC Comics arrives on Netflix just in time for family movie night
Latest in News
Audiolab 6000A MkII amplifier in silver
Audiolab upgrades its five-star 6000A amplifier with a new DAC chip, enhanced circuitry and HDMI ARC
Qobuz
Qobuz reveals average payout per stream – and claims it is higher than rivals
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Quick! This five-star Sonos Dolby Atmos soundbar has dropped close to its lowest price
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
A woman flicking through stacks of vinyl records in a Rough Trade shop.
Vinyl records and music streaming both hit landmark highs – but the one growing faster in revenue may surprise you
Vertere DG X turntable in black finish
Vertere's gorgeous DG X turntable features significant updates for a more refined performance overall