Why has there been a sudden change in Netflix's traditional release model, especially for some of the streamer's most popular TV shows?
The Big Picture For years, Netflix prided itself on its binge-model release of episodes. This meant, of course, whole seasons would drop on their planned release day, instead of weekly like cable TV. The streaming services that came later — like Prime Video, Disney+, and Max — seem to have found a happy medium between the two, where most shows are dropped weekly or by hybrid model, premiering a few episodes at first and then releasing the rest one at a time, but there are notable exceptions.
More TV Shows Are Relying on Fan Engagement and Word of Mouth The most likely reason Netflix is now implementing these midseason breaks is to increase engagement, both with shows and the service itself. The streaming game has become brutal as each streamer tries to find success amid many other competitors — with even more platforms being added all the time. Netflix needs to make sure that people are still engaging with their content, but also that more people will continue to sign up and watch.