Well, there will be no more free live streaming of the IPL, which had been available since 2023. JioCinema, which acquired the streaming rights for the IPL in 2023 for a massive $3 billion, offered free streaming. However, from the IPL 2025 season onwards, fans will need to buy subscriptions based on their viewing preferences to watch the matches live.
JioHotstar, the newly launched streaming platform created from the merger of Viacom18 and Star India under the name JioStar, will not provide completely free streaming. The platform was introduced recently on Friday following the integration of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar into JioStar. This change marks a setback for cricket fans who previously enjoyed free streaming services.
Although it’s hard to say why this happened, a source told Reuters, “Once a user develops affinity to the platform, starts watching for free, and becomes loyal… the subscription will kick in then.” This approach isn’t entirely new, as similar strategies have been seen in the past across various sectors.
For the upcoming season, fans may only be able to watch a few minutes of an IPL match without a subscription. After the free minutes expire, they will be directed to a subscription page.
JioHotstar subscription plans
| Plan | Devices Supported | Resolution | Audio | Ad-Free | Cost (3 Months) | Cost (1 Year) |
| Mobile-only | 1 (Mobile only) | 720p | Stereo Sound | No | 149 | 499 |
| Super Plan | 2 (TV, Laptop, Mobile) | Full HD (1080p) | Dolby Atmos | No | 299 | 899 |
| Premium Plan | 4 (TV, Laptop, Mobile) | 4K (2160p), Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos | Yes (Except live sports/events) | 499 | 1499 |
There are three subscription plans available, each tailored to the viewer’s needs. The Mobile-only plan is designed for single-device users, allowing streaming on mobile devices at a maximum resolution of 720p with stereo sound. It is available at 149 for 3 months and 499 for a year. The Super Plan supports streaming on up to two devices, including TVs, laptops, and mobiles, with Full HD (1080p) resolution and Dolby Atmos sound for an immersive audio experience. It is priced at 299 for 3 months and 899 for a year. For the best viewing experience, users can opt for the Premium Plan, which allows streaming on four devices in 4K (2160p) resolution with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos audio. It costs 499 for 3 months and 1499 for a year.
