It sounds contrary to what TV viewing habit studies are reporting now, but Showtime has found that its fans still want live viewing options - perhaps even more than on demand.
Showtime’s streaming service launched two months ago, and President David Nevins is now analyzing who is watching what, when and how in an update that spans more than just this specific app.
Reflecting the demand for more live-streaming options, Showtime has found that its app users are opting for live-streaming, a feature that Showtime has been able to boast that it has and competitor HBO NOW does not. Nevins commented that the live-streaming has certainly “done better than we expected,” as so many reports are still relying on the assumption that live viewing is dead.
The difference is that Showtime now has options to watch live on air or on its app, offering the TV Everywhere experience for subscribers.
One thing Showtime has chosen not to release in its streaming data is subscriber numbers, as this is the first time that Showtime has had direct access to its subscriber base instead of having to go through a cable company first. But Showtime hopes that as more cord cutters leave those cable companies, its streaming service will be there to catch potential subscribers to its other offerings.
Showtime’s streaming service is currently on iOS, Roku and PlayStation Vue for $10.99 per month. It’s also available on Hulu now through a deal making it a premium option for Hulu subscribers. Nevins has said recently he plans on singing on more distribution partners before its next big season launch with the October debuts of The Affair and Homeland.
Read more at Adweek.
Brief Take: Contrary to popular belief, live viewing is still incredibly popular - as long as the content is available to view live anywhere.
[Image courtesy of Showtime]
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