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iQIYI (爱奇艺) : The Netflix of China for streaming dramas, films and original series.

Baidu-backed and online since 2010, iQIYI ranks among China's largest video platforms, streaming licensed films and its own original dramas.

Users watch Chinese dramas, anime and variety on phones, smart TVs and the web. Paid VIP removes ads and unlocks episodes early; the free ad-supported plan still covers most shows.

Viewers outside China can use a separate international app whose interface and subtitles are localized in English, Spanish, Thai and more.

Does iQIYI have ads like Netflix?

No, iQIYI has a hybrid model. Free users watch with ads. Paid subscribers get ad-free viewing but may still see sponsored content within shows. iQIYI also inserts "mid-roll" ads in some content. This differs from Netflix's purely subscription model.

Is iQIYI censored?

iQIYI must comply with Chinese content regulations. All domestic content undergoes government review before release. Shows with politically sensitive themes are modified or banned. International content is also censored to meet Chinese standards. This applies to both domestic and international versions.

Can I watch iQIYI from the US?

That's right. iQIYI has an international version (www.iq.com) available in the US and other markets. Content library differs from the domestic version due to licensing. International version includes English subtitles for most original content. Some China-only content is unavailable overseas.

Is iQIYI like Netflix?

iQIYI is often called "China's Netflix." It produces award-winning original series like "The Bad Kids" and "Story of Yanxi Palace." It has over 100M paid subscribers. Unlike Netflix, iQIYI offers a free ad-supported tier and has integrated interactive video features.

Last Updated: 2026-09-07


Screenshot of [iQIYI > www.iqiyi.com]

iQIYI (爱奇艺) : Video app for Chinese dramas, anime, shows

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