Channel 4 has announced plans for a new linear channel that will be scheduled around those shows creating the most noise on social media.
Speaking at the FT Digital Media Conference David Abraham, Channel 4 chief executive, said 4seven would give viewers a chance to catch up with the most popular content from the previous seven days. 4seven, which is being made available across all major platforms, is the first new launch from the broadcaster since 2005.
“With so much choice out there, viewers are increasingly saying they sometimes just miss the best stuff, despite their PVR and VOD. 4seven will give viewers more chances to catch the most popular and talked about Channel 4 shows from the last seven days,” said Abraham.
The scheduling will bring in content from the main channel that is getting the attention of social media, bloggers, commentators and Channel 4’s viewers.
Broadband TV News: 4seven appears to be the first time a channel has fused a catch-up service with a traditional linear channel. The question is does this displace viewing from 4oD, the broadcaster’s catch-up service, or drive more viewers to it.
