Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Disney+ are facing stiff competition from a rapidly growing rival that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
As subscription prices climb annually, viewers have a wealth of options but the expense of their weekly streaming indulgence is becoming increasingly steep.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope as Fox’s competing service Tubi gains traction by the second.
It has recently been disclosed that Tubi’s subscriber count has soared to 97 million, all enjoying its extensive content library without spending a penny.
Tubi boasts “the world’s largest collection of movies and TV episodes, including over 300 original exclusive originals”, reports the Mirror.
The only trade-off? Viewers will experience occasional ad breaks in exchange for not handing over any payment details, reminiscent of traditional TV viewing from just a few years back.
The platform offers a diverse range of titles, from cult favourites like Donnie Darko and Cruel Intentions to beloved series such as Peep Show and Gracepoint.
Tubi also prides itself on a significant selection of original productions, with the service noting that one in four of its audience members enjoy these alongside classic offerings.
Their recent original series, Sidelined: The QB and Me, launched in November and swiftly set a record for Tubi, drawing the largest audience in its debut week.
Looking ahead to 2025, there’s much anticipation for new releases, including The Thicket, a Western thriller featuring Peter Dinklage and Juliette Lewis.
The Z-Suite, a new workplace comedy hoping to rival the likes of The Office and Parks and Recreation, is in development, while the streamer has also confirmed its commitment to the second series of BBC’s Boarders.
Despite some criticism over its ad-driven model, many viewers are content with discovering a free platform that boasts a variety of original and classic programmes.
On social media, one user expressed their satisfaction: “I like Tubi cus it has ads,” while another added: “Tubi is low key one of the best streaming services. You get ads but otherwise it’s totally free and the selection rules.”
Reflecting on Tubi’s successful start to 2025, CEO Anjali Sud shared: “Tubi’s momentum is growing as audiences increasingly value a premium entertainment experience that is also 100% free, fun and reflective of culture.
“Our strategy is simple yet powerful: put viewers first by offering unique stories from unique storytellers, a vast selection of content to choose from and a delightful experience across devices.
“We let our viewers guide us and obsess over their engagement, and we are seeing the results.”