iWorld
Netflix launches mobile plan for India at Rs 199/month
MUMBAI: Netflix has announced the launch of a new mobile plan for India. At INR 199 per month, members will be able to enjoy all of Netflix’s content—uninterrupted and without ads—in standard definition (SD) on one smartphone or tablet at a time. This is its fourth Indian plan, in addition to the existing basic, standard and premium plans.
“Our members in India watch more on their mobiles than members anywhere else in the world- and they love to download our shows and films. We believe this new plan will make Netflix even more accessible and better suit people who like to watch on their smartphones and tablets—both on the go and at home,” said Netflix director, product innovation Ajay Arora.
According to a FICCI-EY 2019 report, Indians spend 30% of their phone time—and over 70% of their mobile data—on entertainment. Netflix is investing heavily in Indian films and series across all genres and for all generations, including much-loved hits like Sacred Games, Chopsticks and Mighty Little Bheem. Thirteen new films and nine new original series are already in the pipeline.
To sign up for the mobile plan:
1. Download the Netflix app or visit the website www.netflix.com
2. Select the mobile plan for INR 199/month
3. Add account details and try the first month for free (for new members)
In addition, to the introduction of a new mobile plan, it has adjusted prices for the three existing plans as follows:
· Mobile – INR 199/month (new tier)
· Basic – INR 499/month
· Standard – INR 649/month
· Premium – INR 799/month
Netflix continues to improve the mobile experience with features like Smart Downloads, mobile previews, and sharing to social media. Most recently, it improved the Android app—by making the sign-up flow for new members and the app load more quickly on entry-level smartphones.
iWorld
JioHotstar enters micro-drama space with 100 shows under Tadka banner
Short-form push targets 300M users as content meets commerce in new format
MUMBAI: JioStar has made a bold play in India’s fast-growing micro-drama space, rolling out over 100 short-form shows under its new Tadka banner on JioHotstar, timed with the massive viewership surge of the Indian Premier League 2026.
The scale of the launch signals clear intent. Rather than testing the waters, the company has dived in headfirst, releasing a wide slate of content on day one. Each show is designed for quick consumption, with episodes running 60 to 90 seconds in a vertical format tailored for mobile-first audiences.
The move comes as India’s micro-drama market, currently valued at around $300 million, is projected to grow tenfold to over $3 billion by 2030. Globally, the format has already proven its mettle, with China’s micro-drama sector recording explosive growth in recent years.
What sets this rollout apart is its built-in monetisation strategy. The shows are free to watch and ad-supported, with brand integrations woven directly into storylines from the outset. It reflects a broader shift where content and commerce are increasingly intertwined, rather than operating in silos.
The timing is equally strategic. With more than 300 million users already tuning in for IPL action, JioHotstar is effectively turning cricket’s biggest stage into a discovery engine for its new format.
The company is not entering an empty arena. Early movers like Kuku TV, MX Player and platforms backed by Zee Entertainment Enterprises have already laid the groundwork, building audiences and validating demand for snackable storytelling.
Now, with scale, distribution and advertiser interest aligning, the big players are stepping in. For JioStar, Tadka may well serve as a proving ground for the next evolution of digital entertainment, where every minute counts and every second sells.
If the bet pays off, India’s next big content wave might just arrive in under 90 seconds.
