MediaStreaming

CNBC Rolls Out Smart TV Service CNBC+ on Roku and Apple TV

about 1 year agoUS
CNBC Rolls Out Smart TV Service CNBC+ on Roku and Apple TVSource: ft.com
CNBC is expanding its reach beyond traditional cable with the launch of CNBC+, a new subscription streaming service. Debuting on Roku and Apple TV platforms, this move reflects the broader industry trend of media companies adapting to cord-cutting and shifting viewer habits by offering content directly to consumers.

Key Insights

What it is: CNBC+ offers live streams of CNBC's programming from the U.S., Europe, and Asia, plus an on-demand library of recent U.S. shows.

Availability: Currently available on Apple TV and Roku via the CNBC app.

Cost: Priced at $14.99 per month.

Target Audience: Aimed at viewers who watch market coverage outside the home, including commuters and traders, as well as the C-Suite and financial services professionals.

Why this matters: This launch signifies CNBC adapting to the decline in traditional cable subscribers and seeking new revenue streams. It provides viewers with more flexible ways to access live business news and analysis, aligning with the growing consumer preference for streaming options.

In-Depth Analysis

The launch of CNBC+ comes as its parent company, Comcast, prepares to spin off NBCUniversal's cable network portfolio in 2025. Traditional cable subscriptions are declining (Kagan estimates CNBC's subscribers could fall from 62.7 million in 2024 to 59.6 million in 2025), prompting networks to explore direct-to-consumer models.

CNBC+ aims to capture viewers who need access to live financial news on the go or through streaming devices. The $14.99 monthly price point positions it similarly to general entertainment streaming services, but notably higher than many dedicated news subscription offerings. The service includes live market data streams alongside programming and access to recent U.S. shows on-demand (up to 7 days post-premiere).

CNBC President KC Sullivan highlighted the 'essential' nature of their live daytime coverage for their target audience. He also hinted at future 'enterprise' opportunities, suggesting potential bulk subscription deals for businesses, similar to how companies might subscribe to a Bloomberg terminal service. The company plans to expand CNBC+ distribution to additional platforms in the coming months. This strategy mirrors moves by other major media companies like Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney, who are also making linear content available outside the traditional cable bundle, sometimes causing friction with pay-TV operators.

FAQs

Q: What is CNBC+?

A: CNBC+ is a subscription streaming service offering live CNBC feeds from the U.S., Europe, and Asia, a live market data stream, and an on-demand library of recent U.S. programming.

Q: Where can I watch CNBC+?

A: It's currently available through the CNBC app on Roku and Apple TV devices. More platforms are expected later.

Q: How much does CNBC+ cost?

A: The service costs $14.99 per month.

Q: Can I watch the regular CNBC channel through the app?

A: Pay-TV subscribers can access the live U.S. linear feed through the CNBC app. CNBC+ is a separate subscription for streaming access.

Key Takeaways

Increased Access: Viewers now have a dedicated streaming option to watch live CNBC content without a traditional cable subscription, particularly useful for mobile viewing or on smart TVs.

Industry Shift: This launch is part of a larger trend where content traditionally exclusive to cable is moving to streaming platforms as companies adapt to cord-cutting.

Premium Price: Be aware that the $14.99/month cost is positioned at a premium level compared to other news-specific streaming options.

Discussion

Do you think dedicated streaming services like CNBC+ are the future for specialized news channels? Let us know!

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Sources & References

Source 1: CNBC rolls out smart TV service - FT target="_blank"

Source 2: Variety

Source 3: Deadline

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