- Discovery+ will add the company to the list of online content providers
- The service will be launched in the United States on January 4, 2021
- At the time of launch, it will offer over 55,000 episodes from across its services
Discovery will be the latest media company to enter the league of streaming services. The company has announced the launch of its standalone streaming service, Discovery+. It will also be the latest company to adopt the plus sign, as a simple naming strategy. The app is set to launch in the United States on January 4, 2021.
Discovery portrays its service as ‘the definitive streaming service for the best real-life entertainment in the world.’ The company is home to HGTV, Food Network, TLC, ID, OWN, Travel Channel, Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet. With the advent of its streaming service, Discovery+ is expected to bring these channels as well. This means over 55,000 episodes will be made available at the launch of Discovery+. Along with its own offerings, Discovery also signed a deal with A&E Networks to feature content from A&E, Lifetime, and The History Channel.
In an attempt to make a competitive approach, Discovery has several original series lined up to entice its viewers. Undoubtedly, the competition will be tough, and new entrants are seeing growth at a much slower pace. A big reason is the inability to create new content during these difficult times. Another point of concern is the oversaturation in the media streaming space, according to some analysts and experts.
Pricing and Availability
Discovery+ offers a $4.99 per month subscription, which will be ad-supported. This plan is in line with NBC Universal’s Peacock Premium tier with ads. For users who want an ad-free pack can opt for a $6.99 per month subscription. It is on par with what Disney+ is offering. Still, the service costs much less than HBO Max’s $14.99 a month plan and Netflix’s $13.99 a month subscription.
Both the plans include support for up to five different profiles and simultaneously stream on four screens. The company has not revealed whether the streaming service will offer any 4K content on its platform. Amazon and Roku are trying to strike a deal with Discovery to carry Discovery+ however the deal remains inconclusive. For now, it is known that the service will be available on all major platforms, such as TVs, web, mobile, and tablets.
Discovery aims that the streaming service will be made available in over 25 countries around the globe in the coming year.
