Are Pay-TV Providers Going Down the Tubes?

                             Image credit: E-Commerce Times

"Cable, satellite and telco TV providers in the US are facing a record number of quarterly subscriber losses" [1]

Now, as Pay-TV providers get all shook up after witnessing the worst ever subscriber losses in Quarter 2 [1], we need to put the spotlight on how this scenario has come about, and look at how it will fare in the future.

The Difference Between Pay-TV & OTT

Before we start, let us just compare these two different business models which enable customers to subscribe to TV content. Pay TV companies such as Comcast, which are usually more costly, generally bundle content, and the consumer has to lease a satellite dish, network set-top box, or proprietary coaxial cable. Conversely, OTT platforms such as OONA Global TV, is delivered via a proprietary CDN (content delivery network) over the internet.

                                Image credit: Telemedicine Clinic

Alarm Bells

Many players within the pay-TV business recognized the loud wake-ups calls long ago. - These began with Netflix, which rapidly hit the heights from a simple American-only DVD mail order service, and then expanded into an extremely popular global video entertainment giant, which is now available in over 190 countries. Further, in 2005, shortly before Netflix started their streaming video service, YouTube was born. This fun diverse platform went on to become one of the most used video websites in the world, shaping and transforming the way people consume video. - And as it bloomed, so did the advertising industry [2].

                                Image credit: Devianart, Jurassic Park Warpath

On the Warpath

Further, gargantuan online platforms such as Amazon, Twitter and Facebook, are on the warpath to achieve optimum levels of success. Moreover, they are all engaged in broadcasting live sports, a field which was once the exclusive domain of broadcast and pay-TV companies. And on top of this, to add even more competition, in the US, Hulu and Google provide their own pay-TV online services [1].

And now, we have up and coming cutting-edge next generation OTT players such as OONA Free Mobile TV, the highly successful new kid on the block which has taken the industry by storm. - OONA first started out in 2018, by partnering with Telkom Indonesia, and making its unique free AVOD service, which actually rewards viewers for interacting and watching what they love, available to 185 million Indonesians.

Since that time, its has made rapid expansion plans all over the world, with a number of high profile launches including the US, expected this autumn. OONA US will offer its both its Free For Life AVOD service, and its SVOD service, the latter of which can be be accessed for as little as one day, for users who want to watch live sports coverage etc.

The Next Generation

This chart from Park Associates shows, the next generation has the upper hand. - This is because when it comes to their approach to business metrics and data, next generation platforms [such as OONA TV], and conventional pay-TV providers, have substantial differences [2].

                                      Image credit: Park Associates

2019: The Demise of Pay-TV?

"Overall pay TV subscriber losses are on track to see a record 5.5% drop during Q2" [1]

MoffettNathanson's analyses indicates that: during Q2 this year, Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV and Charter, the three leading conventional providers of pay-TV have suffered a total loss of 1.25 million subscribers. Moreover, although the figures are not yet in, it is estimated that compared to Q2 2018, 1.1 million more subscribers have bid adiós from other big name providers [1].

"Freaking Ugly!"

Telling it like it is, the MoffettNathanson report states that: “With Comcast’s, AT&T’s and Charter’s [second quarter] earnings in the books, the early read on traditional cord-cutting is freaking ugly. -The growth of cord-cutting and the continued decline in viewership are weighing on advertising as well, as we forecast flat growth for the quarter” [2]. 

More About OONA - So What Is the OONA Advantage?

Consumers who download the OONA app will experience exciting free live and on-demand entertainment from hundreds of channels, on-the go, anytime, anywhere; and on their home TV via OONA casting and the OONA Android TV box.

Another OONA TV advantage, is the fact that OONA TV users get rewarded with a virtual currency (tcoins), just for watching the content they love, checking out interesting personalized ads on the free AVOD service, which can save them time and money; sharing on social media, and interacting with OONAbot, the cool genie in the app who is there to serve them, and give them the best possible CX. The tcoins are stored in a personalized e-wallet, and can be redeemed for a huge range of quality branded goods and services, coupons, discounts, free meals and fun days out, telcom products, and exclusive prizes from the daily Bid n'win competition.

Proven Ad Success

In the Asia market where OONA TV was launched in conjunction with one of the world's leading telcoms, Telkom Indonesia, OONA TV has recorded a 21% CTR rate on Video Ads which is a huge 92X (times) higher than the average global CTR recorded by Google.

Unlimited Innovation

OONA's unstoppable drive for innovation, looking outside the box, and putting users in the driving seat, is having an enormous impact on the industry, with various OTT TV platforms all over the world following the OONA model by changing from their SVOD (subscription-based video on demand) to AVOD, or by adding AVOD; as well as emulating OONA by adding live TV, and other unique strategies.

Disruption at its Best

Headed by leading digital and AI strategist, Christophe Hochart, the platform's ethos has been the same ever since he founded it a few years ago: to put consumers first, and give them loyalty rewards; give telecoms, studios and content holders an unbeatable deal, operate in a transparent way; protect users' personal information; and empower billions of people with free access to top entertainment, thereby bringing equality to all, and putting a stop to pirate TV.

Choice is King

                                Image credit: Urbanmoms

“Options” is the watchword of all savvy consumers. - And this is one reason why OONA TV is so successful. OONA users can easily add the OONA+ to their free AVOD service. -The latter gives them hundreds of top local and international channels, not to mention virtual currency rewards for watching the programs they love, and the ads that interest them, and can save them time and money. The OONA+ SVOD Premium option can be accessed at any time, whether it is for just a day, a weekend, week, month or year.

OONA consumers enjoy a whopping five choices:

Option 1

Viewers do not have to pay subscription or data charges. This is because OONA's AVOD (ad-based live & on demand video service) is largely funded by personalised ads which are regularly updated according to what branded products each individual consumer is interested in at the time.

Option 2

OONA's SVOD (subscription based live and on-demand video service), offers viewers the choice of paying for specific premium content on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or annual basis.

Option 3

OONA's TVOD (transaction-based live and on-demand video service), provides a pay-per-view option. So for example, if a couple just want to enjoy a newly released premium film on the odd Friday night or weekend, then they do not have to sign up for an extended period of time, and be burdened for paying for more content than they really want, like they may have to do with other platforms.

Option 4

Viewers can unlock premium content by using their tcoins (OONA's virtual currency rewards which can be used for telcom products, free phone minutes, branded goods and services, discounts, meals and other fun things). These tcoins are easy to accrue from watching various channels, looking at ads, sharing content with friends and family, and interacting with OONA's AI Genie in the app, OONAbot, who personalizes their content, and ensures that they get the best possible CX. The tcoins are stored in a personalised virtual wallet.

Option 5

Premium pay-TV content can be easily included in the user's telcom data plan bundle.

Exceptional Flexibility

OONA's exceptional flexibility had proved incredibly practical for: families who want to watch special content at weekend get togethers; couples who want a fun night in to enjoy special live entertainment events, or a recent film release; and adolescents' school holiday periods.

Keeping Financial Commitments in Check

It is also an excellent system for when consumers have a temporary change in circumstances, such as unexpected unemployment, or other issues. They can take a break for as long as they like, enjoy everything OONA's excellent free AVOD service offers, and then resume with the OONA+ SVOD add-on, as and when they are ready. And again, this can just be for the odd day for super live sports specials; or for certain weekends, holiday time, and so on.

OONA - Free Unlimited Entertainment for Life

                             

References

[1]. Clancey, Michelle (2019). "Pay-TV providers face worst quarter ever for subscriber losses in Q2."

https://www.rapidtvnews.com/2019073056818/pay-tv-providers-face-worst-quarter-ever-for-subscriber-losses-in-q2.html?utm_campaign=pay-tv-providers-face-worst-quarter-ever-for-subscriber-losses-in-q2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter_2192#axzz5vAqepP7Z Accessed 30 July, 2019.

[2]. Sappington, Brett (2019). "What Shifting Data Use Means for Pay-TV and Video Services." E-Commerce Times.

https://www.ecommercetimes.com/story/86088.html Accessed 30 July, 2019.

The Billion$ Freeloaders: Strategies to Prevent Password Sharing

Image credit: Brand Synario

“OTT & streaming media companies are losing billions of $s from password sharing” [1]

As Yahoo Finance notes: “Freeloading off other people deprives Netflix of at least $2.3 billion in revenue each year... and that number is bound to go up after the largest price hike in the company’s 12-year history” [2]. Moreover, last year, Hulu lost around $1.5 billion [1], and the non-stop momentum of the 'Freeloading Factor' also impacts other streaming media companies.

"Parks Associates predicts that $9.9 billion of Pay-TV revenues & $1.2 billion of OTT media services revenues will be lost in 2021 due to credentials sharing" [3]

Taking Action

Platforms need to have a robust strategy in place in order to address this very serious issue. OONA Global TV, the highly successful up-and-coming Virtual MVPD (multi-channel video programming distributor), and a major player in the disruption of the television industry, is currently set up to provide its cutting-edge AVOD and SVOD services to 185 million Indonesians, and is on course to provide the same to the US this autumn, with other parts of Asia, Africa, South America, the Middle East and Europe, following suit at a later date. OONA's strategy towards preventing password sharing and driving revenue retention, means following the latest innovative methods concerning IP decisioning data and analytics, while simultaneously balancing out both the customer experience and content licensing mandates by using state-of-the-art AI software and appropriate IP (internet protocol) decisioning data and tools. 

Cracking Down

When it comes to trying to pinpoint who the freeloaders actually are, detecting suspicious activity is the name of the game. - Yet OONA understands extremely well that streaming platforms have to tread cautiously when it comes to: “effective enforcement within constraints that are often set by external entities” [1].

If for example, a streaming company takes instant action, and blocks suspicious users before it receives verification of the consumers' identity and location, the fall out could be most unwelcome. For instance: “An authorized user trying to sign in from an atypical location or network might react with concern—and make a costly call to customer service [which could take a long time, and interrupt what they were doing]. Or worse, these frustrated users could take their business elsewhere” [1].

                                    Image credit: Channel Pro

Login Intelligence Data

Gaining an oversight into strategic login begins with collecting information on consumers' IP geolocation. “This data connects a user’s IP address with associated geographic location information: where they are logging in, how they are connecting to the internet... whether the IP address is originating from a hosting facility or a residential location, etc.” [1]. This in turn enables streaming companies such as OONA TV, to establish its company's regulations on criteria for suspicious behaviour, and permitting access [1]. Clearly, attaining the strongest possible IP geolocation data is crucial. - It empowers streaming providers so they can locate users with precision, and pinpoints any logins done from other locations, which could potentially mean password compromise [1].

                                      Image credit: RT

Dealing With Anonymous Users

As a percentage of users consume content via a proxy server or VPN, the difficulty is more complex. This is because these viewing methods hide the users' original/assigned IP address, and as such, enables them to log in and not be unidentified. And although this form of access is a 100% legal, the rub is that whenever someone masks their location in this way, for the purpose of circumventing geographic boundaries, they could well be in violation of the streaming platform's content viewing restrictions or terms of service, in which case, viewing this way will not be allowed. So in a nutshell, masking makes the detection of password sharing an almighty task. - If the streaming platform is not able to pinpoint the users' exact login location, it makes it hard for them to recognise fraudulent logins carried out at alternative regions [1].

Monitoring “Typical” User Behaviour

The use of Proxy servers and IP addresses are all part and parcel of users' profiles, and as such, contribute to subscribers' typical activity and digital history. And although users' histories are always in a state of flux, [when streaming platforms follow OONA's strategy] of determining a baseline or geo-footprint for users' “normal” behaviour, then it enables their security department to flag anomalies which could potentially imply password sharing [1]. For example, when a subscriber who is resident in NYC unexpectedly signs in from London.

                                     Image credit: The Independent

Velocity Checking

Another means [OONA TV uses] for picking up atypical activity, is applying a velocity check. This process, which is often utilised by fraud prevention platforms, flags changes in a user’s login location, if they take place within an unrealistic timespan [1]. - For instance, if an OONA subscriber based in NYC logs in from there at 7 in the morning, and then logs in again at 10 that same morning, from London, unless Richard Branson or Overture have come up with a next generation supersonic version of Concord, which can fly far faster than twice the the speed of light, it is likely that this subscriber would get red flagged for further investigation.

Exercising Caution

Top global information services provider, Neustar's excellent white paper on cracking down in password sharing, makes the very important point that it is far less costly, and less difficult to keep a subscriber than take on a new one. To that end: "OTT content providers need to be cautious about “blanket blocks” of all suspicious password-sharing activity. Legitimate subscribers don’t want to see “access denied” when logging in for a long-anticipated game, show, or movie. And they certainly don’t want to feel like their OTT or streaming media content provider is scolding them or accusing them of prohibited activity" [1]. 

                                    Christophe Hochart, on screen & second left

Christophe Hochart

 Digital leader, AI expert, and government and telcoms advisor, Christophe Hochart, the CEO and Founder of OONA Global TV, who is well known for his anti-piracy drive, stated that: "In order to tackle this dilemma which is costing the industry billions of dollars, it is essential to have a cutting-edge AI system in place so that subscribers' account activity can be analysed through ML (machine learning). Specific software is able to detect any out of the ordinary activity on a user's OONA account, for example, when it is being used in multiple locations at the same time."  

References

[1]. Streaming Media (2019). “Cracking Down on Password Sharing? IP Intelligence and Human Insight Can Help.” https://www.streamingmedia.com/PDF/e9db4ac1-02c5-4754-b59e-38673ccab596.pdf?i=ff943b72-e9a9-4057-b77d-a4795a29dd70   Accessed 26 July, 2019.

[2]. Swaminathan, Aarthi (2019). “Password sharing costs Netflix billions — and that's before the price increase.” Yahoo Finance. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/password-sharing-costs-netflix-billions-thats-price-increase-160028395.html   Accessed 26 July, 2019.

[3]. Kalam, Kayenat (2019). “Netflix Password Sharing: Crackdown Begins!” Brand Synario.

https://www.brandsynario.com/netflix-password-sharing-crackdown-begins/   Accessed 26 July, 2019.

2024: $12.5B in Lost Revenue Predicted Due to Pay-TV & OTT Piracy & Account Sharing

Image credit: Viaccess-Orca

Research just in from renowned tech market research and consulting company, Parks Associates, predicts that this year, pay-TV and OTT companies will lose a whopping $9.1 billion due to video piracy and the sharing of accounts. And to makes matters worse, “this number will grow to $12.5 billion in 2024, a [staggering] growth rate of 38%” [1].

                                           Image credit: ZD Net

Moreover, the firm's report, “360 Deep Dive: Account Sharing and Digital Piracy,” also notes the the clear and present financial danger of the current situation: “the rise of online video has shifted the economics of the video content industry... thus sparking an evolution in the thinking and behavior of the people looking to steal content. Illegal live streaming, app-based sharing, and account sharing are now rampant in the online content marketplace” [2].

 High Tech Boosting the Pirate Economy 

"20% of US broadband households are using a piracy app, website, or jailbroken device" [2]

The massive tech revolution and newfound methods for content distribution are empowering consumers so they can enjoy video streaming on most connected devices, from where ever they are. In fact, globally, during 2019: “video streaming subscribers [outnumbered] paid-TV subscribers, with the former accessing over 500 licensed online video portals” [3].

                                                Image credit: Park Associates

The knock-on effect to this has brought about super-fast expansion, and skyrocketing consumer demand, thereby enabling the industry to produce: “original content at an unprecedented rate and creating new and innovative ways for consumers to watch their favorite sports around the world, their favorite television series, their favorite movies, and countless other consumer choices” [3].

Yet, apart from the huge benefits of: “rapidly adapting creative and technology industries, which [in the US alone], employ up to 2.6 million workers... and provide $229 billion in annual economic benefits to the U.S. Economy” [3], there is also a massive downside.

Perceptions in US Households

  Image credit: Park Associates

“Currently 27% of US broadband households engage in some form of piracy or account sharing” [4]

As the proliferation of access to legal streaming has come to the fore, so has digital piracy. - Now, criminal players have adapted their strategies to benefit from the latest consumer behaviors and innovative technologies. Indeed: “research indicates that more than 80% of piracy is attributable to streaming. Illegal streaming is enabled by piracy devices and apps, which have overtaken BitTorrent and other download-based technologies that deliver unauthorized live television shows and video on demand over the internet [3].

                                                            Image credit: Forbes

The Complexities of Piracy

As Parks Associates' Principal Analyst and Senior Research Director, Brett Sappington, notes: “Growing subscriber numbers and an increased number of services signal a very healthy OTT market, but more services and aggressively promoted content could incite more piracy over time. Consumers will hit an upper limit to spending eventually. When that happens, they will resort to pirate tactics to get the content that they want, particularly for sports and other content where trials are not available” [1].

                                       Image credit: theregister.co.uk

The Main Culprits?

Interestingly, Park Associates' study indicates that the demographics which subscribe to OTT services the most frequently, are also those who top the list for account sharing or piracy. Indeed, households with low yearly incomes, and male consumers age 35 and under, show a disproportionate rate of engagement [1].

Clearly, piracy is an intricate issue which can only be fought using multiple advanced strategies.. And as Sappington points out: “Most pirates subscribe to at least one OTT service. They are not simply thieves looking to steal content, but are video enthusiasts who engage with many different services. OTT services could better reach these consumers through ad-based content, which also aligns with these users' general belief that 'movies/music should be given away for free” [4]. - So step forward OONA Free ad-based OTT TV.

“Penetration of OTT paid services was up 13% over the past year, while free services increased 23% over 2018” [1]

The Low Down on OONA OTT TV's Solution to Drowning the Video Pirates Once & For All?

From the perspective of renowned digital leader and AI expert, Christophe Hochart, the CEO and Founder of OONA Global: the solution to piracy is likely to be a combination of the smart use of Blockchain, that is: applying video virtualisation tech along with smart contracts to transact and control videos as digital assets within a blockchain itself; and Futuristic Next Generation Live and On Demand AVOD OTT platforms such as OONA Free Mobile TV, which empowers users with a lifetime guarantee of unlimited, exciting entertainment over hundreds of top local and international channels.

Still in Development

Hochart points out that: “Video virtualisation tech along with smart contracts to transact and control videos as digital assets within a blockchain itself, is currently in the developing stage. - However, the results look very promising, so it may only be a matter of time before it will be implemented so that virtual video is embedded within every blockchain block, and smart contracts are utilised to monitor the transactions connected with video files.”

Being Rewarded With a Virtual Currency

OONA, which actually rewards viewers with a virtual currency (tcoins), just for watching and sharing the content they love, gives users a mega choice of countless first-class channels which they can watch for free, any time, any where, on the go; or via OONA app casting on their home TV sets, or via an OONA Android TV box. - All without the fear of being prosecuted by the authorities. They also have OONAbot, the cool Genie in the OONA app who personalises the entertainment they love, and only shows them ads that interest them, and can save them time and money.

OONA - Leading the Way

A fantastic free entertainment platform is certainly one realistic solution to the current global piracy pandemic. - For example, OONA Indonesia, which went into partnership with one of the world's largest telcom companies, Telcom Indonesia, launched its platform in 2018, and is now set up to provide its cutting-edge free (and premium option) services to 185 million Indonesians. Now, as each day goes by, countless people are hearing about OONA Indonesia, and downloading the OONA app, and in time, that will move more and more people away from their pirate ways. - After all, the pirate platforms are not exactly opening up their treasure chests and rewarding their viewers with a virtual currency which, in the case of OONA, can be redeemed for a broad selection of branded goods and services, discounts, meals, fun days out, holistic health treatments, free mobile phone minutes, telcom products, and exciting daily bid n'win competitions!

In fact, OONA's out of the box innovation has been recognised and emulated by industry players all over the world, and OONA Global is currently on course to expand its winning service to the US, other parts of Asia, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, with a number of launches later this year - so that should send some the the pirates running down the plank...

OONA's strategy to combat password sharing, can be read about on our upcoming blog: “The Billion$ Freeloaders: Strategies to Prevent Password Sharing.”

References

[1]. Cision (2019). “Parks Associates Forecasts $12.5B in Lost Revenue in 2024 due to pay-TV and OTT Piracy and Account Sharing.”

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/parks-associates-forecasts-12-5b-in-lost-revenue-in-2024-due-to-pay-tv-and-ott-piracy-and-account-sharing-300885598.html Accessed 19 July, 2019.

[2]. Park Associates (2019). “Account Sharing and Digital Piracy.”
https://www.parksassociates.com/marketfocus/account-sharing-video Accessed 19 July, 2019.

[3]. Blackburn, David et al. “Impacts of digital Video Piracy on the US Economy.” NERA Economic Consulting. https://www.theglobalipcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Digital-Video-Piracy.pdf

Accessed 19 July, 2019.

[4]. Park Associates (2019). “Parks Associates forecasts $12.5B in lost revenue in 2024 due to pay-TV and OTT piracy and account sharing.”

https://www.parksassociates.com/blog/article/pr-07162019   Accessed 19 July, 2019.

Meet Christophe Hochart, Founder of OONA Global TV at the 18th Congress of the Republic of Philippines, State of the Nation Address

"Approximately 40% of the Philippines’ GDP will be derived from digital products or services by 2021" [1]

The House of Representatives is holding two major events this Monday, 22 July. One of these is the fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) by the country's 16th President, Rodrigo Duterte. And the other is the Opening of the First Regular Session of the 18th Congress [2], both of which will be at held at the Plenary Hall, House of Representatives, Quezon City, Metro Manila.

President, Rodrigo Duterte

Meet Christophe Hochart at the Philippines State of the Nation Address

Christophe Hochart, leading digital strategist and AI expert, is the Founder & CEO of OONA Global TV, the cutting-edge, next generation streaming service which offers Unlimited Entertainment, puts consumers in the driving seat, and rewards them with a virtual currency for interacting & watching what they love. OONA is currently set up to serve 185 million Indonesians with its free AVOD, and SVOD services, and is on course to serve countless millions in other parts of Asia, Africa and the USA, this year; with other territories to follow. 

                                   Christophe Hochart, on screen & 2nd left

Hochart, who has acted as a digital advisor to governments and telcoms all over the world,  remarked: “It is such an honor to be invited to the Philippines State of the Nation Address. A study conducted by Microsoft in partnership with IDC Asia/Pacific states that: “By 2021, digital transformation will add an estimated US$8 billion to the Philippines’ GDP” [1]. I am very excited to see the progress on the Digital Broadcasting Act that will drive impressive economic growth and support the Philippines media and creative industries.”

Putting a Spotlight on the Philippines' Future Success

The World Bank has shown that, according to the Philippines Economic Update: “Amidst lingering global and local uncertainties, the Philippine economy is poised to grow at 6.4 percent in 2019 and 6.5 percent in 2020 and 2021” [3]. Moreover, a Microsoft commissioned IDC study forecasts that: “approximately 40% of the Philippines’ GDP will be derived from digital products or services by 2021” [1].

Image credit: Microsoft

More About OONA

So What Is the OONA Advantage?

Consumers who download the OONA app will experience exciting free live and on-demand entertainment from hundreds of channels, on-the go, anytime, anywhere; and on their home TV via OONA casting and the OONA Android TV box.

Another OONA TV advantage, is the fact that OONA TV users get rewarded with a virtual currency – tcoins, just for watching the content they love, checking out interesting personalized ads on the free AVOD service, which can save them time and money; sharing on social media, and interacting with OONAbot, the cool genie in the app who is there to serve them, and give them the best possible CX. The tcoins are stored in a personalized e-wallet, and can be redeemed for a huge range of quality branded goods and services, coupons, discounts, free meals and fun days out, telcom products, and exclusive prizes.

Proven Ad Success

In the Asia market where OONA TV was launched in conjunction with one of the world's leading telcoms, Telkom Indonesia, OONA TV has recorded a 21% CTR rate on Video Ads which is a huge 92X (times) higher than the average global CTR recorded by Google.

Unlimited Innovation

OONA's unstoppable drive for innovation, looking outside the box, and putting users in the driving seat, is having an enormous impact on the industry, with various OTT TV platforms all over the world following the OONA model by changing from their SVOD (subscription-based video on demand) to AVOD, or by adding AVOD; as well as emulating OONA by adding live TV, and other unique strategies.

Disruption at its Best

Headed Hochart, the platform's ethos has been the same ever since he founded it a few years ago: to put consumers first, and give them loyalty rewards; give telecoms, studios and content holders an unbeatable deal, operate in a transparent way; protect users' personal information; and empower millions of people with free access to top entertainment, thereby bringing equality to all, and putting a stop to pirate TV.

References

[1]. Microsoft (2018). “Digital Transformation to Contribute US$8 Billion to The Philippines GDP by 2021.”

https://news.microsoft.com/en-ph/2018/02/14/digital-transformation-contribute-us8-billion-philippines-gdp-2021/ Accessed 20 July, 2019.

[2]. Republic of the Philippines (2019). “House of Representatives ready for SONA 2019.”

http://www.congress.gov.ph/press/details.php?pressid=11619 Accessed 20 July, 2019.

[3]. World Bank (2019). “Philippines to Sustain Strong Growth amidst Local and Global Uncertainties.”

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2019/04/01/philippines-to-sustain-strong-growth-amidst-local-and-global-uncertainties Accessed 20 July, 2019.

SVOD: Successful Growth Across International Markets

                                                                Image credit: abu.org

Ampere Analysis, the well known, London-based data collection and forecasting firm, has just released a research report which states that: “Young audiences are driving growth in demand for subscription video services, with the US market reviving and Europe quickly catching up” [1].

Rolling, Rolling, Rolling...

 “Digital TV Research forecasts 81 million additional pay-TV subscribers between 2018 and 2024 – up by 8%. This will take the global total to 1.10 billion” [2]

“In what will be good news for Disney+, Apple TV+ and other new OTT subscription video-on-demand platforms such as [OONA Global TV, which along with its next generation free AVOD service, also offers a cutting-edge SVOD service, which is] rolling out in the coming months, as consumer demand for SVOD is growing worldwide” [1]. The pendulum is definitely moving in favour of subscription video on demand, as more consumers across the board take up this service, with the American market once again returning to growth, and the sails of the less-mature European market changing course [1].

What the Stats Say

In the US, between Q3, 2016, and Q1, 2018, subscriber figures for SVOD plateaued to a little more than 70% of households. Moreover, during 2018, and throughout Q1, 2019, SVOD growth revved up. In fact, the study shows that, generally speaking: 80% of internet users in the States pay for at least one SVOD service. There is only one territory with a higher uptake, and that is Saudi Arabia, which boasts 86% penetration [1].

The Euro Catch Up

When it comes to subscription video on demand, the generally well-off European markets which have always lingered behind America, are now playing catch-up at a super quick pace. Indeed, the research firm determined that overall, there is a healthy subscriber growth across Europe, with only Holland not following suit [1].

In Britain and the Nordic countries: over 70% of the study respondents who use the internet, reported paying for at least one subscription video on demand service. Further, these territories are known for having the continent's highest incidence of internet use [1].

With regard to Spain and Italy: uptake from respondents is high at 68% and 66%, respectively. Further, Europe's biggest television market, Germany, boasts 59% stating that they pay for a minimum of one SVOD service [1].

France, on the other hand, is the only large country where under half (49%) of responders have signed up for SVOD. Moreover, Japan is the sole major territory shown to have under 50% of consumers who are connected to the internet, but do not pay a subscription [1].

Consumer research head at Ampere Analysis, Minal Modha, noted: “The growth in SVOD subscribers in both regions (Europe and the US), will come as welcome news, particularly to those looking to enter the market this year... because it shows there is still room for growth and the opportunity to take a share of the revenue” [1]. So let's take a look at two platforms which will be doing just that.

 "Digital pay-TV growth is really impressive – rocketing from 380 million subscribers in 2010 onto 954 million at end-2018 and on to 1,096 million by 2024" [2]

 Disney+

                                                             Image credit: Marvel Studios

November 12, is the golden day when Disney's ultimate SVOD offering, Disney+ will be available in the US. This glittering platform promises to deliver a whole host of movies and shows from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar and National Geographic; as well as exclusive new TV shows, films, nature and adventure titles, behind-the-scenes features, animated programming, competition series, original reality shows and documentaries [3].

Further, Disney+ is geared to roll out in Western Europe sometime between late 2019 and early 2020; in Eastern Europe and Latin America, around October 2020; and in the Asia Pacific from around October 2019 [1].

OONA+ 

OONA+ is highly unique, in that when consumers download the free OONA app, they are immediately connected up to OONA's fantastic state-of-the-art free AVOD service which offers free TV, free videos, free music, and free games; and actually pays them a virtual currency (tcoins) for watching the content they love; provides a personal assistant genie in the app, named OONAbot, and offers them hundreds of top local and international channels, to which they can add exciting Premium OONA+ offerings, as and when they want to.

                                                               Image credit: Claretandhugh

A Guarantee Users Cannot Refuse 

This dual choice guarantees users Free TV For Life with OONA's personalized ad-based service; moreover, it empowers them with great choice and flexibility on the OONA+ Premium service, which they are free to take up if and when they chose to do so, as there is no binding contract or binding financial commitment.

The OONA+ Premium Advantage, which lets consumers just use the service for a day, cancel, upgrade or downgrade at any time, is designed to meet everyone's needs. It can be enjoyed just on weekends, special days, during holidays, and so on; and users can go for gold, and have it on tap every day.

Some users may, for example, just like to watch the odd premium special such as live sports, or other top events from around the globe. These are broadcast using OONA's world class live streaming capabilities and advanced infrastructure, which ensures a high quality seamless experience. Consumers can also enjoy countless hours with the latest premium series and films, innovative short-form offerings, and a whole host of genres bumper packed with original and must-see programs in top cinematic quality. These come from hundreds of studios and content creators, and many feature the world's hottest celebrities, presenters and entertainers.

Simplicity at Your Fingertips

Users can take advantage of the simplicity of just using one app, and will benefit from unique, next generation personalized functionality. Further, data can be saved, and then viewed offline. OONA supports streaming to smart phones, computers, tablets, connected televisions and streaming media boxes.

                                   Key Speaker, Christophe Hochart far right & on screen

Forward Agenda 

OONA Global TV, which was founded by leading digital strategist and AI expert, CEO, Christophe Hochart: is currently set up to serve 185 million Indonesians with its fantastic Free AVOD, and OONA+ Premium offerings. It is also making entertainment history with its drive for “Entertainment Equality,” as it prepares to deliver its free service to billions of people in other parts of Asia, the USA, Africa, South America, the Middle East and Europe. - With a number of exciting high profile launches including the US, planned for later this year.

References

[1]. Roxborough, Scott (2019). “SVOD Subscribers Grow in U.S., Europe in Good News for Upcoming Disney, Apple Services.” The Hollywood Reporter.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/svod-subscribers-grow-us-europe-1223780 Accessed 12 July, 2019.

[2]. Broadband TV News (2019). “Global pay-TV to add 81 million subscribers.” https://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2019/06/13/global-pay-tv-to-add-81-million-subscribers/

Accessed 12 July, 2019.

[3]. Sorrentino. Mike & Solsman, Joan, E. “Disney Plus streaming service: Release date, price, shows and movies to expect.” CNET.

https://www.cnet.com/news/disney-plus-shows-movies-price-release-date-pixar-toy-story-avengers-marvel-star-wars-netflix/  Accessed 12 July, 2019.

2019: Consumers Predicted to Spend 800 Hours On Mobile Devices

           Image credit: L'Atelier BNP Paribas 

“People around the world will spend an average of 800 hours using mobile internet this year – that’s equivalent to 33 days without sleep or pause. By 2021 this will rise to 930 hours” [1]

   Image credit: Expatica

 “Even as consumers are set to spend 800 hours using mobile internet devices in 2019, television remains the biggest medium globally” [2].  

Interesting research just in this month from leading ROI agency, Zenith, indicates that globally: TV is still the world's largest and best loved medium. The report did however, predicted that in 2012, TV will account for one third of all media consumption, which is down from the 35% estimated for 2019 [2].

Mobile TV is the Future

Across the 57 countries that were surveyed, people will spend a collective 3.8 trillion hours using the mobile internet this year, rising to 4.5 trillion hours in 2021" [1] 

Ever since 2015, when Zenith published their first report showing the average amount of time consumers around the globe spend using the internet on mobile devices, there has been a sharp increase from 80 minutes to 130 minutes per day. This equates to an average annual rate of 13%, which is without doubt, due to the greater technology and available functions, which generated a surge in smartphone use, much faster connections, and innovative apps [2]. One example of the latter, is the cutting-edge free, OTT mobile entertainment platform, OONA TV, which puts consumers in the driving seat, and even rewards them for watching what they love. 

More Statistics

Zenith, which specializes in tech, data and analytics, media planning, value optimisation, and communications planning, also notes that: as mobile internet growth is slowing down due to the fact that a very high percentage of people in developing countries [such as Indonesia, where OONA Mobile TV is set up to serve 185 million Indonesians], smartphone ownership is now commonplace. Further, the research firm forecasts: “an average of 8% annual growth in time spent on mobile internet devices between 2018 and 2021. [They also] expect mobile internet use to account for 31% of global media consumption in 2021, up from 27% this year” [1]. So what is the percentage likely to be in 2030?

                                              Image credit Televisions- Wasi.lk 

TV is Still the Most Popular Medium 

On a global scale, TV remains the largest medium, and this year, it is attracting an average of 167 minutes (just 13 minutes shy of 3 hours) of viewers' time, each day. It is however, forecast to: “ fall slowly to 165 minutes a day in 2021. Although, television will remain the world’s favourite medium throughout [Zenith's] forecasts, accounting for 33% of all media consumption in 2021, down from 35% in 2019” [1]. And this is why Virtual MVPD (multi-channel video programming distributor), and a major player in the disruption of the television industry, OONA Free TV, which also offers SVOD and TVOD options, provides entertainment from hundreds of top channels, on-the go, anytime, anywhere; and on users' home TV via OONA casting and the OONA Android TV box.

                                            Image Credit: NJl Media

Total Media Consumption Has Shot Up to 8 Hours Per Day

The mobile internet has greatly increased the amount of time users spend consuming media. In fact, it is thought that this year, people will spend an average of 479 minutes a day with it - an increase of 59 minutes since 2013. Moreover, Zenith's analysts believe that in 2021, this could shoot up to 495 minutes per day [1]. And the more time that consumers use mobile internet, the more likely they are to use mobile TV apps such as OONA.

More About OONA TV

Besides currently being set up to serve 185 million Indonesians with its flexible AVOD, SVOD and TVOD options, OONA TV is in the process of bringing entertainment equality to millions of people by becoming established in the US, other parts of Asia, and Africa, with a number of high profile launches planned for the coming 6 to 12 months.

Christophe Hochart, Founder & CEO of OONA

Headed by leading digital strategist and AI expert, founder, Christophe Hochart, the platform's ethos has been the same ever since he founded it a few years ago: to put consumers first, and give them loyalty rewards; give telecoms, studios and content holders an unbeatable deal, operate in a transparent way; protect users' personal information; and empower millions of people with free access to top entertainment, thereby bringing equality to all, and putting a stop to pirate TV.

One hugely popular OONA TV advantage, is the fact that OONA TV users get rewarded with a virtual currency – tcoins, just for watching the content they love, checking out interesting personalized ads which can save them time and money; sharing on social media, and interacting with OONAbot, the cool genie in the app who is there to serve them, and give them the best possible CX. The tcoins are stored in a personalized e-wallet, and can be redeemed for a huge range of quality branded goods and services, coupons, discounts, free meals and fun days out, free data and phone minutes, other telcom products, and exclusive prizes.

References

[1]. Zenith Media (2019). “Consumers will spend 800 hours using mobile internet devices this year.”

https://www.zenithmedia.com/consumers-will-spend-800-hours-using-mobile-internet-devices-this-year/Accessed 9 July, 2019.

[2]. O'Halloran (2019). “Mobile boom but TV remains the most popular medium.” RapidTV News.
https://www.rapidtvnews.com/2019061156318/mobile-boom-but-tv-remains-the-most-popular-medium.html#axzz5t3Up4KNM Accessed 9 July, 2019.