Paramount+ adding curated linear channels
Paramount+ has rolled out a new feature, curated linear channels for kids and family, reality TV and Star Trek. The new feature called “Live Channels” was inspired by ViacomCBS’s ad-supported free streaming service, PlutoTV. At this time, the new linear channels will not have ads on either the ad-free Premium or ad-supported Essentials+ plans. At launch there are 18 different programmed channels including various animation and reality channels, franchise specific like Paw Patrol, Spongebob and Star Trek, TV Classics and more with additional channels rolling out soon.
The NPD Take:
- The addition of linear ad-free channels to Paramount+ provides another engagement point for subscribers while making it easier to discover content.
- This is another example of the great re-bundling likening back to a traditional cable TV look and feel.
Peacock gets Universal’s movies
Upcoming Universal Studio films will premiere on NBCUniversal owned Peacock as early as 45 days after the theatrical debut shrinking the traditional Pay 1 window from 120 days. The change will impact upcoming 2022 releases; however major tentpole title such as Jurassic World: Dominion, Minions: The Rise of Gru and Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer are not expected to be included in the shorter release window.
The NPD Take:
- Theater-going still isn’t back to pre-pandemic levels so it makes sense that studios are looking to bring these movies to their DTC platforms sooner to satisfy at-home viewing.
- The theatrical experience is being reshaped into a premium medium for immediate access to tent pole titles.
Google and Roku reach new distribution deal
Google and Roku have reached a new multi-year extension for both YouTube and YouTube TV. The two companies averted a situation that would have seen YouTube and YouTube TV absent from new Roku devices beginning December 9, while existing Roku customers were spared potential disruption through a previous agreement.
The NPD Take:
- YouTube drives a lot of engagement and YouTubeTV is among the largest of the pay TV streaming platforms. This ensures the services remain on the largest streaming platform in the U.S.
- Roku proved, again, that it’s needed.