GECs
Sony Networks’ Indian channels cross 1 bn subs globally
MUMBAI: It has crossed the billion subscriber mark making it a time to pop the champagne at Sony Pictures Networks India. The latest Q2 2018 financials (up to 30 September 2017) announced by Sony Corp reveals that there was a spike in its global subscriber base from 793.2 million to 1.206 billion, courtesy its Indian bunch of channels.
The reason: the additional distribution that its latest acquisition – Ten Sports Network channels – garnered in various global markets. Additionally, it has been further pushing its existing channels on newer platforms globally. Sony Pictures Television’s media networks vertical operates 101 channels with 189 feeds in Asia, Australia and North America and has a total of 1.94 billion subscribers across the world (as of 30 September 2017).
The 1.206 billion subs for India originating channels means that they account for more than 50 per cent of the total for the megacorp.
Indian rival Zee Entertainment claims 1.3 billion viewers for its 35 domestic channels and 39 international channels which are available in 173 countries.
GECs
Samsung TV Plus launches Kings of Comedy channel
New free FAST channel brings iconic Hindi comedy shows to millions of Samsung Smart TV owners.
MUMBAI: Samsung TV Plus has just turned up the laughter volume and it’s completely free. The leading free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service in India has launched Kings of Comedy, a premium comedy channel featuring some of the country’s most beloved primetime shows. Available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the channel delivers back-to-back hits including Comedy Nights with Kapil, Khatra Khatra Khatra, and Comedy Nights Bachao, with no login or subscription required.
The launch marks a milestone for free streaming in India, offering audiences a dedicated comedy destination directly from their Samsung TV home screen. It arrives as Samsung TV Plus India celebrates its 5th anniversary, during which the service has grown its monthly active users by 42 per cent and more than doubled its total viewing hours. The platform now offers over 180 free channels across 14 languages.
Samsung TV Plus India general manager and head of business development Kunal Mehta said, “Comedy is the heartbeat of Hindi entertainment, and Kings of Comedy brings together the shows Indians already love, completely free on their Samsung TV. Our focus remains the same take the content people know and make it effortless to access.”
Globally, Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users across more than 4,500 channels, solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading free streaming services.
Kings of Comedy is now available on all compatible Samsung Smart TVs. For viewers seeking non-stop laughter without any cost, this new channel delivers a royal treat proving that sometimes the best entertainment really does come with no strings (or subscriptions) attached.
