Streaming Services Changing Due to Landmark Ruling: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+

A landmark ruling in California is set to shake up the world of streaming entertainment. A new state law prohibits streaming services from playing advertising audio at a higher volume than the content it accompanies. This means big changes for subscribers on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ who opt for the cheaper tiers.

The growth of streaming has been incredible, with Netflix and Prime Video leading the charge a couple of decades ago. But the landscape has exploded with options like Disney+, Apple TV+, Paramount+, and more. There’s a wealth of content available at your fingertips, if you’re willing to pay for it.

Unfortunately, one downside of streaming services is the abundance of ads you’ll see if you’re on a lower-cost subscription. It’s not just the quantity of ads that can be bothersome, but also the volume. Advertisements are often louder than the shows themselves, prompting viewers to scramble for the remote during commercial breaks. Some TVs have tools to address this issue, but many do not.

Thankfully, in California, a new law will require streaming services to ensure that ads are not played at a higher volume than the main program. This move is aimed at improving the viewing experience for consumers. While the law won’t take effect until July 1, 2026, it’s a step in the right direction. As streaming services implement technology to comply with the new standards, we hope to see similar changes in other regions as well.