Netflix brings gaming to TV
Finally, Netflix subscribers can play mobile games on their TV, a feature which has been in development over the past two years. In 2023, Netflix launched a game controller app for iOS devices. Subscribers can access the feature through the Games tab on the Netflix app and can play using their phone as the controller. The new games include Boggle Party, LEGO Party, Party Crashers: Fool Your Friends, Pictionary: Game Night, and Tetris Time Warp. As these games are aimed toward groups, more viewers will be engaged with the service when they are not watching TV shows or movies.
The Circana Take:
- Netflix is positioning itself as a source of gaming content while giving viewers another reason to stay engaged and subscribed. From original programming to sports adjacent content, sports, and now video games, the company continues to find new ways to expand its offering.
Disney+ homepage refresh
The Disney+ homepage will get a significant refresh with the Hulu integration. There will be a new navigation bar at the top of the screen featuring the following sections depending on the subscription: For You, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN. The “For You” tab provides more personalized recommendations based on the users’ interest. Additional features include a new live hub providing quick access to sports, news, and events; improved video displays and imagery; and title tags such as Season Finale, New Series, and New Movie to help viewers discover new and noteworthy content. Notably, Disney will be raising its monthly prices starting October 21 by $2 for the ad-supported Disney+ plan to $11.99/month, and the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will increase by $3 to $18.99/month. Bundle prices will also rise.
The Circana Take:
- Streaming services are relying more on UI upgrades to boost engagement with programming. An important progression with rising programming costs and alternative service options.
CNN Live News goes their own way
CNN Max will no longer be available on HBO Max starting mid-November as CNN plans to launch its own streaming channel this fall. CNN launched the livestream two years ago, after the brief lifespan of CNN+. The new streaming service will include live channels and on-demand programming, as it brings all their content to one place.
The Circana Take:
- This new subscription product could help revive CNN, which has been battling for ratings the past few years. However, as it no longer has the HBO Max platform to attract viewers, it remains to be seen how many subscribers stick with the service given the magnitude of free options available.