Paramount Global to create all-in-one free streaming destination for UK viewers to complement its premium Paramount+ service.
- Combined My5 and Pluto to launch during the second half of 2024.
- Will be the online home of all of Channel 5’s streams for the first time.
- Brand name and further details to be announced early next year.
The new combined service will be built on Pluto TV’s current content platform and will consolidate Paramount’s streaming services to just two in the UK – one for premium streaming and one that’s free.
Paramount says the new “streaming destination” will offer live streams of its free-to-view channels, on-demand content as well as a curation of free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels.
Channel 5 has already delivered a number of online-only streaming channels to Pluto TV and some other online platforms, for example the “Channel 5 Exploring Britain” factual channel. With the launch of the combined My5-Pluto TV, all of Channel 5’s streaming offer will be found in one place, with a range of streaming only channels to rival ITVX.
Incidentally, the merged service will also allow Paramount to maximise its presence on Freeview Play. Streaming apps from the main broadcasters on Freeview Play are eligible for an allocation of channels in the 300-600 range. Currently only the BBC makes use of this facility, and only on newer devices. This means Paramount will have the ability to launch additional IP-delivered channels currently on Pluto TV within Freeview Play’s TV guide.
Olivier Jollet, EVP and General Manager Pluto TV, Paramount International Markets commented:
“As an early pioneer of FAST globally, we’ve seen incredible growth and excitement for Pluto TV in markets around the world. By joining forces with our leading BVoD platform in the UK, we are offering audiences, partners, and clients a supersized free streaming destination that we know they’ll love. This is a significant evolution for our free streaming business in this important market and a testament to how we strategically approach our platforms and the future of streaming.”
Further details about the new product, including its branding will be revealed by Paramount next year.
Marc Thornham