Peacock comes to Amazon Fire TV
After almost a year since the service launched, Peacock is finally available on Amazon Fire TV devices. In addition to the streamer, the new deal allows for distribution of NBCUniversal’s other network apps including NBC, Bravo, NBC News, NBC Sports, and Telemundo. The agreement comes just ahead of the Summer Olympic games which will feature exclusive programming and live events on Peacock.
The NPD Take:
- Being available on Amazon Fire TV is vital for Peacock to continue to have an opportunity to grow among streaming households given its large distribution footprint.
- The increased distribution coupled with the Summer Olympics could be the right opportunity for Peacock to expand subscriber numbers and convert those using the free tier to premium.
Apple shortening free trial window for Apple TV+
Beginning July 1st, any new Apple device owner will be offered a three-month trial to Apple TV+ down from the free year previously offered. For some viewers, they may have had free Apple TV+ since it first came out. As such, the new three-month trial will only be available to customers who haven’t previously activated the free trial. The timing also comes ahead of the season 2 releases of popular shows Ted Lasso and The Morning Show.
The NPD Take:
- Apple TV+ was the one the few remaining services offering extended free trials. Most distributors found trials to be unsustainable in an all you can eat, on-demand model.
- To remain relevant, Apple TV+ will need to continue focus on building out its content library to keep viewers interested and engaged.
Spielberg joins forces with Netflix
Steven Spielberg’s company Amblin Partners partnered with Netflix to produce at least two films per year for an undisclosed amount of time. The deal isn’t exclusive and Amblin will continue to maintain its partnership with Universal Pictures. Some of the Netflix-Amblin films may also get theatrical distribution but it will vary by film.
The NPD Take:
- Netflix is upping its content game, again, this time with a focus on quality movies. While viewers spend most of their time streaming TV series, movies have proven to be a significant subscriber acquisition and retention tool.
- As the streaming wars heat up, the demand for viewers time will only get more fierce. Streamers are quickly realizing there is a fine balance between quantity and quality and finding the right mix of content to attract and retain viewers.