YouTube TVs free device giveaway promo
YouTube TV has begun alerting customers about the upcoming launch of an optional 4K content add-on and offering them a free Chromecast with Google TV or TiVo Stream 4K device. The device offer could possibly be related to Google’s ongoing feud with Roku, which has removed YouTube TV from its app store due to a distribution dispute. Google has responded by adding YouTube TV access to its existing YouTube app on Roku. The company also said that existing YouTube TV members still have access to the app on Roku devices, but that it’s in discussions with other partners to secure free streaming devices in case YouTube TV members face any access issues on Roku.
The NPD Take:
- Google is finding different ways to ensure YouTube TV can be widely viewed by its users. Offering up free devices to stream 4K content should help keep its customers engaged, while also increasing sign-ups for its 4K content add-on.
- Google would benefit from YouTube TV’s presence on the Roku app store given Roku’s market dominance, so it would be in both party’s interest to resolve existing disputes.
AMC Networks expands distribution
AMC+, the company’s bundled streaming package that includes original series from AMC, SundanceTV and IFC, is looking to expand its distribution. The company reported that some new agreements have already been reached and that AMC Networks is in the process of implementing launch with those partners. AMC+ is available via Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime Video Channels, Comcast Xfinity, DirecTV, Dish, Roku, Sling TV and YouTube TV. Pricing varies for the service dependent on the platform. It’s $6.99/month on Comcast Xfinity but $8.99/month through Amazon Prime Video Channels.
The NPD Take:
- By offering linear and streaming distribution through MVPD partners AMC+ could have an easier time negotiating programming terms.
- Direct-to-consumer distribution of AMC+ would put them in a position to optimize growth.
Discovery’s cable and streaming strategy
Discovery is using its Discovery+ streaming service to promote its cable and satellite shows and vice versa. Discovery expects to see viewers heading in both directions, citing the Discovery+ spinoff, “Home Town: Ben’s Workshop,” created for HGTV woodworking guru Ben Napier. Conversely, Magnolia Network shows will debut on Discovery+ before a planned 2022 launch of the linear channel and Shark Week will get its own Discovery+ series in addition to the traditional programming on linear Discovery channels. Discovery+ comes in two pricing tiers—$4.99 a month with ads or $6.99 ad free.
The NPD Take:
- Discovery is catering to both audiences, those still engaged with linear programming and those looking for on-demand streaming. While beneficial at launch, it won’t be easy straddling the line long term.
- While the strategy leverages each asset to drive viewers to the other, many don’t want or have access to both. That could leave viewers frustrated by the inability to get the programming they want.