CBS to Launch SVOD ‘All Access’ Service With Current and Classic Programs
CBS offers up even more direct to consumer over the top offerings - eventually you will be able to unbundle to get just the content you want without the cost of the entire cable bundle. We are almost there, but not quite yet.
What I foresee happening longer term with the major networks/studios is a commercial free but pricey subscription streaming model, perhaps offered with with a free but commercial laden model, and a lower cost subscription with lighter commercial interruptions. All studios will continue to go full tilt product placement mode, it’s the way of the TIVO world.
HBO isn’t the only big TV outlet taking its TV series straight to the masses.
CBS Corp. is launching its own subscription service for on-demand consumption of its flagship network’s TV programs, as well as older series to which it owns the rights. “CBS All Access” will offer thousands of episodes from many of CBS’ current programs, classic series in its library as well as content from its local-TV stations, for $5.99 a month. With the service, anyone who wants to watch CBS shows will be able to do so whether they subscribe to a programming package from a video distributor or not.
The move represents a continuation of the big bet the company made when it declined to take an operating position in Hulu, the video-streaming site run by Walt Disney, 21st Century Fox and Comcast. At a time when the habit of watching TV programs via digital transmission is in its relative infancy, it may not make sense to tie too strongly to a particular distribution methodology.
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