Hotstar is trying to up its game with VIP subscription, pay by cash option ahead of IPL 2019

Hotstar has reportedly introduced a new, cheaper VIP subscription plan ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019. The Hotstar VIP annual comes at the annual price of Rs 365, which sits somewhere between Hotstar’s standard Rs 999 plan and all-Sports Rs 299 plan, which no longer exists. Here is what the Hotstar VIP subscription is all about and how it differs from the rest of the plans currently available on the platform.

How is Hotstar VIP subscription different from the existing plans?

Unlike the traditional subscription plans, Hotstar VIP subscription plan offers limited access to the Hotstar Specials label, Star network serials and live sporting action including the Indian Premier League and ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. Previously, Hotstar had announced All-Sports plan for Rs 299, which did not let subscribers access anything other than Sports. That, however, changes with Hotstar VIP subscription

Does Hotstar VIP enable access to shows like Game of Thrones and Friends?

Unfortunately, subscribing to Hotstar VIP plan will not get you access to shows like Game of Thrones and Friends since it is strictly limited to Star network serials and live sporting action. If you are looking forward to watching TV shows like Game of Thrones, The Flash and Friends, you can subscribe to Hotstar Rs 999 standard annual plan or Rs 199 monthly plan.

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What happens to active All-Sports subscribers?

If you have an active subscription to Hotstar’s all-sports annual plan, Hotstar will upgrade your subscription to Hotstar VIP with no additional cost. However, we are seeking some more clarity on how it affects the validity period.

“Hotstar VIP is aimed at providing users accessibility – be it with the introductory price or the ability to watch exclusive new shows in multiple regional languages. It is a value proposition built with the Indian audience at the heart of it,” Varun Narang, chief product officer (CPO) of Hotstar told Inc42.

Meanwhile, Hotstar has introduced ‘Pay by Cash’ option for those looking to subscribe to Hotstar VIP. According to Inc42, cash will be collected from the VIP subscribers within 48 to 72 hours of usage.