HBO will launch a stand-alone streaming service in 2015 to challenge Netflix. Yesterday, Starz confirmed that they will follow in HBO’s footsteps with a service that requires no cable TV subscription.
In the US and abroad
Starz has confirmed its plans to offer the streaming service in select international markets, and yesterday CEO Chris Albrecht hinted that it could also come to the US as a stand-alone streaming service. No details were shared.
- “I don’t think it cannibalizes the existing business. It is a way to innovate and create real value,” he said according to Variety.
The service is said to be an all-you-can-eat subscription plan with original series from Starz such as Spartacus and Outlander, mixed with other TV shows and movies. The international launch is expected for next year.
Starz’s plan to leave the cable TV package world underlines a trend that Netflix started years ago with huge success. So far no one have been able to challenge Netflix internationally, but HBO has been using the Nordic countries as trial markets since 2012.
- Source: Variety
