Paramount+ raises subscription prices and terminates free trials for 2026
Paramount Global raised Paramount+ subscription prices effective January 15, 2026, the first increase since 2024. Announced during the Q3 2025 earnings report in November 2025, changes coincide with the end of new subscriber free trials and precede the premiere of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’s first season and UFC 324 on January 24, 2026.
The price adjustments affect all plans in the United States. Monthly basic and premium subscriptions each increased by $1. Annual plans saw larger hikes, with the basic annual subscription now priced at $90 and the premium annual at $140. These rates apply immediately to new and existing subscribers opting for annual commitments.
Paramount+ simultaneously discontinued its free trial option for new users as of January 15, 2026. Previously available to attract sign-ups, the trial allowed potential customers to sample content without upfront payment. This removal eliminates a primary entry point for testing the service directly through Paramount+.
The timing aligns closely with major content additions. Star Trek: Starfleet Academy launches its inaugural season around this period, drawing fans of the franchise with new episodes featuring cadets training at the academy. On January 24, 2026, UFC 324 marks the platform’s debut UFC event, streamed live for the first time.
Prior to this partnership, major UFC fights operated under a pay-per-view model exclusive to ESPN+ subscriptions. ESPN+ has since transitioned to ESPN Unlimited, altering distribution channels. Paramount+ now handles live broadcasts of select UFC events, supplemented by on-demand replays available post-event.
Viewers can access the complete UFC fight schedule via the Paramount+ website. This resource lists upcoming bouts, enabling planning around live streams and archived content. Both basic and premium tiers provide entry to these UFC features throughout 2026.
For subscribers interested in multiple UFC events beyond UFC 324, annual plans deliver cost efficiency relative to monthly equivalents. The $90 basic annual and $140 premium annual equate to lower per-month costs over 12 months, despite the recent hikes. Both options grant identical UFC access, including live viewing and subsequent on-demand availability.
Alternative access persists through bundled services. Walmart+ memberships include a Paramount+ Essentials plan within a 30-day free trial for new Walmart+ subscribers. Priced at $98 annually after the trial, Walmart+ bundles this streaming access with additional retail perks such as free shipping and fuel discounts.
Amazon Prime Video offers Paramount+ as a channel add-on with a 7-day free trial. New add-on users receive this period at no charge, after which the monthly Paramount+ fee integrates into the existing Prime billing cycle. This setup suits Prime members seeking temporary or ongoing Paramount+ inclusion without separate sign-up.
Paramount+ maintains distinct tiers for varied preferences. The basic plan suits standard viewing, while premium adds enhancements like ad-free experiences in certain contexts and potential 4K support where available. UFC content streams across both, ensuring broad accessibility for combat sports enthusiasts.
The shift to Paramount+ for UFC expands streaming options amid evolving sports media rights. Previously siloed on ESPN platforms, fights now reach wider audiences via Paramount+’s established user base. On-demand features facilitate rewatches, highlights, and full event recaps post-broadcast.
Annual commitments lock in current rates for the full year, shielding from interim monthly adjustments. Subscribers activating before further changes maximize value for extended UFC coverage. Walmart+ and Prime integrations preserve trial opportunities, channeling new users through partner ecosystems.