Paramount+ and the Cost of Streaming
As a collector, you understand the value of a piece not just in its monetary worth, but in its historical significance, craftsmanship, and the story it tells. In the age of streaming, where does this leave us?
The Core Argument
News recently broke that Paramount+ is planning a price increase for subscribers in 2026. While this may seem like a concern primarily for casual viewers, it has significant implications for collectors of digital content. The hike in subscription fees is a reminder of the transitory nature of streaming content and the ever-increasing costs to maintain access to them.
Why This Matters
As collectors, we value ownership and preservation. We want to be able to revisit our favorite content whenever we like, without the fear of it disappearing or becoming inaccessible due to price hikes or service discontinuation. The planned price increase by Paramount+ raises questions about the sustainability of digital collecting. It's not just about the financial investment, but the emotional attachment we form with the content we collect.
Addressing the Critics
Some might argue that streaming platforms offer convenience and access to a vast library of content. They might even suggest that physical collecting is outdated in this digital age. While these points hold some truth, they overlook the joy and satisfaction derived from owning and preserving a piece of cultural history. Digital collections, tied to fluctuating subscription fees, can never fully replicate this.
Final Thoughts
As the market evolves, so must our collecting habits. But let's not forget what makes collecting special: the thrill of the hunt, the joy of ownership, and the pleasure of revisiting our collections whenever we wish. In the face of rising streaming costs, perhaps it's time for us collectors to reassess the value we place on digital content.