CNN has announced plans for the CNN+ subscription streaming service that will launch early next year.
The direct-to-consumer standalone streamer will exist side by side with CNN’s existing television networks and will feature eight to twelve hours of live programming a day along with original series, archive titles and an ‘interactive community’.
CNN has remained steadfastly linked to users requiring a cable or satellite subscription. Lucrative and long-term deals with cable distributors and advertisers have also meant it can’t just sell its current live programming via streaming.
As tens of millions are cutting the cord though, the pressure has been on for them to create an offering to those who are no longer a part of the cable ecosystem and at the same time give existing cable subscribers additional programming.
Pointedly though, access to CNN’s linear television feeds will NOT be included unless you’re a paid TV subscriber. That sounds like it’s effectively shooting itself in the foot as this would be the main draw of such a service to cord-cutters.
The service will launch first in the United States and will roll out later in the year into other countries. Subscribers will access the streaming service within the existing CNN-branded app.
Price hasn’t been determined, but there will be no ad-supported tier.
Source: The Verge
