CNBC+ joins Apple and Roku
Apple TV and Roku are now distributing CNBC+ content to CNBC subscribers. The plan costs subscribers $15/month and includes live streams of their programs along with a collection of past shows. Subscribers can get CNBC+ content from the CNBC app through the Apple and Roku stores or via CNBC Pro, offered directly through CNBC. The company expects to make CNBC+ available on additional streaming services soon.
The Circana Take:
- News is quickly moving from cable to streaming as it breaks away from the traditional TV infrastructure. This deal helps expand the CNBC audience, while giving streaming services “newsworthy” content.
Disney partners with National Geographic for Earth Month
Disney unveiled its Earth Month programming schedule with a campaign led by National Geographic focusing on global conservation efforts. This month, the ourHOME campaign will include new digital releases and will highlight global efforts to protect and rebuild our planet. Kicking off the second year of the campaign, Disney+ will offer content such as “Secrets of the Octopus,” “A Real Bug’s Life,” and a full library of Disney nature films. Also debuting during Earth Month is Nat Geo’s “Secrets of the Penguins” narrated by Blake Lively and “Sea Lions of the Galapagos” narrated by Brendan Fraser. Earth Month will also feature Disney experiences at Disneyland/Disney World, ourHOME Sweepstakes and the Disney Conservation Fund awarding philanthropic grants to various nonprofit organizations helping youth to connect with nature in their communities.
The Circana Take:
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Disney continues to establish its ability to increase the value of its streaming service beyond content, something few of its competitors can do. We expect to see other streaming providers enhance the value of their services, more likely with partnerships rather than company branded assets.
Amazon to release more movies in theaters
Amazon is planning to release around 15 movies in 2026 as it expands its footprint beyond streaming. Amazon started this shift when it bought MGM in 2022 releasing around five to 10 movies theatrically. However, the theatrical window had been inconsistent with its timing to air on Prime Video. The movie slate for next year will spend 45 days in theaters, before it reaches Prime Video. While most of the movies planned are original content, there will be some reboots of MGM classics including “The Thomas Crown Affair,” and “Masters of the Universe.”
The Circana Take:
- Amazon’s expansive theatrical release slate should give them a boost in streaming viewership, while this could breathe life into theatre attendance. After all, some movies are better seen on the big screen.