With much of the world self-isolating and working from home, it comes as little surprise that the various streaming services are seeing unprecedented levels of usage.
In a business update on Monday, AT&T revealed that Netflix data traffic across its U.S. networks reached record levels this past weekend – achieving all-time highs on Friday/Saturday. In response, Netflix shares shot up 8.4% on Monday – doubly impressive as the Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3% for the day.
Netflix previously estimated that globally it would add 7 million subscribers to its ranks in the first quarter of 2020, that estimate has now been revised upwards to ten million. Netflix is also seeing a boost in plan upgrades with many upgrading from the HD two-stream option to the 4K four-stream family plan now that multiple members are stuck at home.
They’re not the only streaming giant benefitting either. The HBO Now streaming service was reportedly up over 40% from its previous four-week average on Saturday, the service achieving the highest engagement rates it has had since last summer when “Game of Thrones” ended its run.
In addition, daily binge viewing of HBO series (three or more episodes per session) increased 65% compared with the prior four weeks. How this has impacted subscriber numbers however remains to be seen.
In terms of specific shows, it’s no surprise the season premiere of “Westworld” was the top-rating show. However a bunch of others saw boosts with “Euphoria,” “The Sopranos” and “Sex and the City” doubling their average, “The Wire” tripling its, while “Chernobyl,” “Game of Thrones,” “Big Little Lies” and “His Dark Materials” all saw 50% boosts.
Source: Variety
