Skip examines Roku's intensified focus on "platform revenue" at a time when some media companies are increasingly looking for ways to bypass platform fees. This tension signals a potential shift in the industry as content providers strive to regain control…
We've been saying that platform taxes are a growing pain point for streaming companies, and Disney’s latest move proves it. Disney+ and Hulu have removed in-app subscription options from Apple’s App Store, directing users to sign up via their website…
The Streaming Wars' latest analysis highlights the growing contention between streaming services and platform gatekeepers over platform taxes that can take up to 30% of revenue. As these fees threaten profitability, streaming companies are increasingly pursuing direct sign-ups through their…
Kirby riffs on Apple's new deal with Amazon to bring Apple TV+ to Prime Video Channels, viewing it as a concession that Apple has missed a larger opportunity in the streaming wars. While the partnership provides Apple with scale, it…
Google's Android TV now powers over 270 million devices globally, an 80% increase since last year. Alongside this growth, Google launched the $100 Google TV Streamer, featuring smart home integration and AI-powered tools. Google TV will expand to more countries,…
Whale TV™ (formerly ZEASN) has rebranded to establish itself as a consumer-facing smart TV platform with over 41.1 million monthly active users. As part of its shift, Whale TV is consolidating its free streaming services into Whale TV+ and launching…
We look at why The Trade Desk's entry into the TV operating system market signals a pivotal shift in the battle for control over the living room entertainment experience. As companies like Roku, Amazon, and Google have dominated this space,…
VIZIO has introduced the VIZIO Sports Zone, a centralized content hub on its Smart TVs that simplifies the discovery of live sports events across various streaming platforms. This feature, accessible directly from the VIZIO Home screen, allows users to easily…
National Streaming Day marks its 10th anniversary, first declared by Roku in 2014. Over the past decade, Netflix skyrocketed from 46 million to 270 million subscribers, evolving from DVDs to incorporating ads and live sports. In 2014, major streaming services…
Spotify's ongoing battle with Apple in Europe revolves around antitrust complaints and compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). Spotify accuses Apple of stifling innovation by taking up to 30% of subscription fees and restricting communication about external subscription…