Streaming platforms should compete on quality of service and pricing. But they don't. They compete in exclusivity instead. And that is the biggest problem. There is a defacto monopoly right now because you can't eg choose between Netflix, Disney Plus and HBO Max to watch Star Wars.

Another problem is their locked down nature. Ie can't get 4k from Netflix by using a PC to watch it even if that PC is specifically built to act as a media device, and can't watch it at all if your device doesn't support HDCP or other hardware DRM schemes. Gotta use a clunky interface on some underpowered, overpriced and privacy-intruding "approved" device.

For an audio enthusiast and tinkerer like I am whos setup is very, very different from typical consumer hifi stuff, the whole "legit" home cinema route is a no go due to stupid restrictions on hardware the MPAA have asserted (specifically no multichannel PCM digital output for receivers/pre-pros).

Piracy is just so much easier, faster and more flexible solution that gives overall better UX, PQ and SQ than trying to conform into the draconian frames of the "legit" route whenever your use case is deviating slightly from the industry-accepted, approved and expected norm.