Subscription video-on-demand services in Western Europe are expected to grow by around 45 million subscribers in 2020, with the Covid-19 outbreak providing a significant boost to the figures.
Poland set for VOD tax
The Polish government is preparing an “anti-crisis shield” measure that will see providers of on demand services in the country pay 1.5% of their revenues to the Polish Film Institute (PISF).
3SS launches 3Ready entertainment ecosystem
German multiscreen software provider 3 Screen Solutions (3SS) has expanded its 3Ready product framework with an entertainment ecosystem.
Super RTL to terminate SVOD service Kividoo
German children’s and family channel Super RTL wants to close down its subscription-based video-on-demand (SVOD) service Kividoo this year and integrate the content on TVNow.
ProSiebenSat.1 to close maxdome in summer
German media company ProSiebenSat.1 wants to withdraw its video-on-demand service maxdome from the market in summer 2020.
Leonine to offer SVOD services independently
German media company Leonine will in future offer its subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services Home of Horror, Filmtastic and Arthouse Cnma not only on Amazon Prime Video Channels, but also on its own.
Alchimie inks Samsung TVPlus deal
Alchimie has become an accredited Samsung partner to distribute over 30 VOD channels on Samsung’s TV Plus platform across France, UK, Spain and Italy.
Coronavirus impacts sharply on Netflix
Netflix saw a temporary acceleration in its membership in the first quarter due to home confinement to halt the spread of the coronavirus crisis.
Western channel Bronco joins Zattoo
Internet TV provider Zattoo has added free Western channel Bronco to its line-up in Germany.
WDR launches children’s HbbTV app
WDR, the regional affiliate of German public broadcaster ARD serving federal state North Rhine-Westphalia, has launched a smart TV app for children.