Big WWE Network Changes: 10 Things You Need To Know
Which tier will YOU choose?
Big changes are in store for the WWE Network.
As reported earlier on WhatCulture, WWE has sent out a market research survey to select fans, asking what they would think about a proposed restructuring of the streaming service. These changes as detailed would represent the largest transformation to the network since its February 2014 introduction.
Back when the network was first announced, it was the culmination of years of planning and hype. As WWE started buying up more promotions' video libraries in the 2000s, there was talk of creating an all-wrestling channel, and in 2011, the network was first announced (originally, it was meant to be launched in 2012). Problems with distribution delayed it, but the increasing popularity of streaming services made that an acceptable avenue for WWE to pursue.
No one could accuse the WWE Network of short-changing fans. In addition to a 24/7 stream and archived content, the service surprised fans with the news that all annual PPV events - even WrestleMania - would stream at no additional charge. Still, fans were slow to subscribe, leading to a huge hit to WWE's finances. Over the next two years, though (and with a fair amount of special incentives), the numbers have reached a respectable level, making the company profitable once more.
Now, things are scheduled to shift once again. How will it affect WWE? How will it affect the subscribers?
Here are 10 things you need to know about the WWE Network changes:
10. Four-Tiered Pricing
Ever since its introduction, the WWE Network has cost $9.99 U.S. a month, with a few exceptions - initially, a one-year commitment was required to sign up, but a no-commitment plan could be purchased at $12.99 a month. Eventually, WWE just dropped the idea of a commitment and stuck with a $9.99/month subscription that could be canceled any time. Still, the price of $9.99 became synonymous with the network, even to a comical level.
Now, that's about to change. While the WWE Network (basically) as we know it will still be available for $9.99 a month, three other price tiers are being considered. A $14.99/month subscription will appeal to die-hard fans, those who want even more wrestling content and more perks along with it. There'll also be a $4.99/month plan that will, unsurprisingly, feature fewer options and less content than the traditional subscription. Finally - and most surprisingly - WWE is introducing an entirely free, very limited network service.
What do these different options entail?