What could be the potential impact of this partnership on the advertising industry?

The partnership between Netflix and Microsoft could set a precedent for future collaborations between tech and streaming companies. It could lead to more tech companies partnering with streaming services to provide ad-supported versions of their platforms. This could also encourage more tech companies to develop their own ad technologies to support such partnerships.

The partnership with Microsoft could potentially have a significant impact on Netflix's growth strategy. By launching an ad-supported version, Netflix is aiming to make up for the lost market share due to subscription losses. Microsoft, being a renowned tech giant, could provide robust ad technology and a vast network, which could help Netflix reach a broader audience and increase its revenue. This could also attract users who are reluctant to pay for a subscription, thus boosting Netflix's user base and growth.

The potential reactions from Netflix's subscribers to the ad-supported version could vary. Some subscribers might appreciate the lower cost option and be willing to watch ads. Others might be frustrated by the interruption of ads and choose to unsubscribe or upgrade to an ad-free plan. There might also be a group of subscribers who are indifferent to the change.