Netflix has signed up with TV rating agency Barb, meaning that its viewership will, for the first time, be measured by an outside, independent entity. The move makes Barb the first industry-owned ratings agency in the world Netflix has joined. Previously, the streaming giant has released snapshots of its viewing data, spotlighting the success of its top-rated shows.
Barb will start reporting on Netflix viewing numbers beginning in November. It is a significant step for the streamer and will result in these data being used by advertisers, competitors, and journalists alike to determine Netflix properties’ success or failure.
Netflix is not the only streamer included: Any service that accounts for over 0.5% of the total number of identified streams will also be listed. This means that content from services like Disney and Amazon is also likely to be included.