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Everyone is jumping on the streaming bandwagon. Once a niche market, streaming services are now quickly becoming a standard in media consumption. The number of video services available to viewers has increased almost exponentially, with new services launching each month. Readers can expect even more streaming services to launch in 2019. Whether you’re an avid Netflix user, or haven’t subscribed to any streaming service yet, there’s something for everyone in the video streaming game right now. And while many of these services are fairly similar and offer relatively the same content (e.g., old television shows and movies), they each have their own unique twist to set them apart from competitors. Comcast and Sky have both reportedly launched new “smart” streaming services this week – one for kids, and another one for sports fans – joining an already large list of other popular video-on-demand platforms currently available to consumers today.
Comcast’s New Streaming Service for Kids
Comcast has announced the launch of its new streaming service called “Blast!” The service is designed to give parents a single platform to easily find and stream child-friendly content. The new Blast service is being billed as “a fully integrated, one-stop shop for kids and families.” Although the Blast service will mainly focus on family-friendly content, parents will also be able to regulate what their kids can and cannot see. In addition to streaming, Blast users will also be able to download shows and movies to watch offline. Comcast has partnered with major content providers including Disney, Nickelodeon, PBS, and more. The Blast service is now available to Comcast customers via the Blast website and a mobile app. Comcast is not charging a separate fee for Blast. Instead, it is included as part of the company’s Xfinity subscription.
Sky’s New Smart Streaming Service
Sky has also announced plans to launch a new “smart” streaming service. Currently in beta, Sky’s new service is being dubbed as a “Netflix for sports.” Like Netflix, Sky’s new sports streaming service will be a subscription-based service, with monthly rates set to be around $16-20. Sky’s service will be a one-stop shop for sports fans to stream live matches, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content. Sky’s new service will be available to customers on all devices, including mobile phones and connected TVs. Sky’s new sports streaming service is expected to launch by the end of 2019.
What to expect from Comcast and Sky’s new streaming services
These two new streaming services will likely bring more competition to the streaming market, which is arguably a good thing for viewers. As more streaming services launch, the more content viewers will have access to. More competition in the streaming market also means that viewers can expect to see more innovative features and live-streaming options.
While there are many streaming services currently available today, some are more notable than others. Comcast and Sky’s new sports and family-friendly streaming services will likely be among the more popular ones.
While Comcast and Sky’s new streaming services will certainly be unique, it’s important to note that there are many other popular video-on-demand platforms currently available to viewers. The major streaming services include Amazon Prime Video, HBO, Netflix, Turner, and many more.
The Future of Video Streaming is on Smart TV Apps
One of the biggest challenges facing video streaming is discoverability. With so many streaming services available to viewers, it can be difficult to find the content you are looking for. The major streaming services have attempted to address this issue by creating their own apps, allowing viewers to easily switch between platforms using their cable remote or smart remote. However, with so many streaming services available, it can be difficult to keep track of which app is compatible with what device.
One solution to the discoverability problem is the launch of smart TV apps, which allow viewers to access content from various streaming services directly from their TV. Smart TV apps are expected to become increasingly popular in the upcoming years. Comcast and Sky’s new streaming services will likely be available on smart TV apps, making them even easier to access.
The Bottom Line
The video streaming industry is expected to reach $70 billion in revenue by 2022. It’s an industry that is growing at a rapid rate and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. That being said, it’s important for viewers to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the industry.
The future of video streaming is looking good, but only if viewers are willing to make the necessary changes to adapt to the changing market. As more streaming services launch, viewers will have to be more selective about what they watch and where they watch it.