Frndly TV, the budget-friendly live TV streaming service known for its family-oriented channels, has revealed a $1 monthly price increase across its subscription plans, effective immediately for new subscribers and starting May 15, 2025, for existing ones. The base plan, previously $7.99, will now cost $8.99 per month, with the Classic and Premium tiers rising to $10.99 and $12.99, respectively. The announcement, shared via email to subscribers, marks the second price adjustment since the service’s launched, reflecting rising content costs while maintaining its position as one of the cheapest live TV streaming options.
Frndly TV offers over 50 channels, including Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, A&E, and MeTV+, focusing on feel-good entertainment without sports, news, or local broadcasts—elements that drive up costs for competitors like YouTube TV ($82.99/month) or Hulu + Live TV ($82.99/month). The Basic plan provides standard-definition streaming on one screen, while Classic adds HD, two simultaneous streams, and three-month DVR storage. Premium unlocks four streams and nine-month DVR retention. All plans include a 72-hour lookback feature and on-demand content, with annual subscriptions offering savings—Basic at $95.88/year ($7.99/month equivalent)—for those willing to prepay.
The hike follows a September 2023 adjustment that raised the Basic plan from $6.99 to $7.99, which drew minimal backlash due to Frndly’s value proposition. Recent additions like MeTV+, Court TV, and Laff have bolstered its lineup, appealing to nostalgia fans and cord-cutters.
However, some subscribers expressed frustration on platforms like X, with one user noting, “$8.99 is still a deal, but these creep-ups add up.” Others praised Frndly’s transparency, contrasting it with pricier services facing backlash, like YouTube TV’s recent jump to $82.99. Frndly’s niche focus helps it avoid the high licensing fees tied to ESPN or regional sports networks, keeping costs low. A Cord Cutters News survey in March 2025 ranked Frndly fourth among live TV streamers, with 6% of readers favoring it for affordability.
To soften the blow, Frndly offers a yearly option that helps you save money and to lock in current rates—Basic at $83.88 ($6.99/month equivalent). New users can still try any plan free for seven days. As streaming prices climb industry-wide—Disney+ hit $15.99/month in 2024—Frndly’s $8.99 base plan remains a standout, delivering Hallmark movies and classic sitcoms for less than a latte run. With no contracts and easy cancellation, it’s betting viewers will stick around for the cozy vibes.
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