Sling TV Beta-Launches Multi-Stream Service

13 Apr, 2016 By: Erik Gruenwedel

---

Content partner Fox using SVOD service to enhance TV Everywhere

Sling TV April 13 beta-launched a new streaming service that enables subscribers to watch live and on-demand content on up to three separate devices. Currently, Sling TV subs can stream content on one device at a time.

Available for $20 monthly, the new service option includes programming from Fox Networks Group, AMC Networks, A&E, HBO, Turner, Scripps, Epix and Univision. The multi-stream option includes access to $5 monthly channel add-ons, including “Hollywood Extra,” “Lifestyle Extra,” “World News Extra,” HBO and Cinemax. Existing Sling subs can trial the program free for seven days.

Dish Network-owned Sling TV in 2015 became the first online skinny-TV bundle, offering 20 pay-TV channels, including ESPN, Disney, AMC, TNT and HGTV, among others. The SVOD service said it saw a 1,140% year-over-year viewership increase during the recent NCAA men’s college basketball national championship tournament.

“Since launch, our customers have asked for more channels and multiple streams. We believe our new multi-stream service … is the first step in answering their requests,” Roger Lynch, CEO of Sling TV, said in a statement. “We look forward to incorporating our customers’ feedback throughout the beta phase as we evolve the multi-stream service to include additional channels, features and functionality.”

Separately, subs can soon use Sling credentials to authenticate TV Everywhere apps Fox Now, FXNow, Fox Sports Go and Nat Geo TV. The pay-TV industry heretofore has unsuccessfully sought to leverage TV Everywhere as an antidote to subscription streaming — notably Netflix. Fox is now using SVOD to validate TV Everywhere.

“This flexible platform … reflects our commitment to providing the consumer with a better and more seamless TV experience,” said Randy Freer, Fox Networks Group president and COO.
 

Bookmark it: