On June 7, Paramount Plus ad-supported packages will become cheaper for new subscribers; CBS live channels will no longer be included in the new entry-level Paramount Plus package, dubbed "Paramount+ Essential."

This is not surprising since this difference was mentioned when Paramount Plus launched earlier this year. However, for those who have not been tracking press releases, the different tiers may come as something of a surprise. We have just received reassurance of this change from an email Paramount Plus is sending to subscribers, one of whom is now on a Limited Commercials plan.

Existing Paramount Plus subscribers on the $5.99/month Limited Commercials plan will not be affected. That is, unless they cancel and re-subscribe after June 7.

In other words, if you want to watch live TV on CBS without paying the full price, the choice is pretty clear: subscribe by June 7 and go to ...... Keep subscribing until you're comfortable with giving up the $1/month discount.

Because once you subscribe, you'll need to subscribe to the $9.99/month commercial-free package. Specifically, the Paramount Plus FAQ page states that "Live TV streams have commercials and some programs include short promotions to let you know about new and upcoming Paramount+ shows."

This is the latest news in consumer advertising in the streaming world. Last week, HBO Max announced a $9.99/month ad-supported service. This will be available this June.

It is not necessarily surprising that these services are putting (arguably) their most powerful features behind a higher price wall, but it makes their entry-level pricing a little less honest. High-profile movies like "Godzilla vs. Kong" and "Wonder Woman 1984" may have encouraged HBO Max to join, and the cord-cutters were probably glad to keep CBS and find an affordable way to watch sports coverage.

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