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4 Things to Know about CBS

CBS is experiencing some amazing growth…and a couple of serious problem. There's good news, but will it be enough to outweigh the bad news?

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4 Things to Know about CBS
4 Things to Know about CBS in 2024

4 Things to Know about CBS in 2024

CBS, a major player in the broadcasting industry, continues to evolve and adapt in response to the rapidly changing media landscape. Here's what you need to know about CBS in 2024:

1. CBS News Expands Local News Service

CBS has significantly expanded its local news service, CBSN Local, which is now available in more markets. This service is aimed at providing market-specific streaming news for cord-cutters who prefer getting their news online. The integration of CBSN Local into the broader CBS All Access platform has made it easier for users to access both national and local news content seamlessly.

2. Growth in CBS All Access and Showtime OTT Subscribers

The combined subscriber base for CBS All Access and Showtime continues to grow robustly. With the increasing demand for streaming services, CBS has strategically positioned these platforms to capture a larger share of the market. The company's original content, including new seasons of popular shows and exclusive programming, has been a significant driver of this growth.

3. The Future of Star Trek: Discovery and Beyond

Star Trek: Discovery, a flagship series on CBS All Access, remains a cornerstone of the platform's original content. Fans can look forward to new storylines and possibly more spin-offs within the Star Trek universe. However, the long-awaited return of Avery Brooks as Captain Benjamin Sisko from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine remains uncertain, much to the disappointment of loyal fans.

4. Leadership Changes at CBS

CBS has undergone significant leadership changes in recent years. The network has been working to rebuild its reputation and address internal challenges, including those stemming from previous allegations against former executives. These changes are part of CBS’s broader strategy to foster a more inclusive and transparent corporate culture.

Conclusion

CBS is navigating through a dynamic media landscape by expanding its local news services, growing its streaming platforms, and continuously delivering compelling content. Despite some leadership challenges, CBS remains committed to evolving with the industry and meeting the needs of its audience.

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3 Ways Theater Chains Can Combat Netflix

Theaters have been steadily losing to streaming services. Now big movies are coming to streaming services. Here's three ways theaters they can compete.

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3 Ways Theater Chains Can Combat Netflix
3 Ways Theater Chains Can Combat Netflix

3 Ways Theater Chains Can Combat Netflix

As streaming services like Netflix continue to dominate, theaters must find innovative ways to compete and draw audiences back to the big screen. Here are three strategies that theaters can employ to stay relevant:

1. Embrace the Change

Theaters should embrace the evolution of media consumption by integrating streaming services into their business model. This could involve hosting special screenings of popular streaming content, offering exclusive theater-to-streaming experiences, or partnering with streaming platforms to create unique viewing events. By combining the convenience of streaming with the immersive experience of the theater, they can attract a wider audience.

2. Fight Back

Theater chains need to negotiate better terms with Hollywood studios to reduce the high percentage of ticket sales that go to the studios. By achieving more favorable revenue-sharing agreements, theaters can lower ticket prices and concession costs, making a night out at the movies more affordable and appealing. Additionally, offering loyalty programs, discounts, and promotions can help draw in cost-conscious moviegoers.

3. Innovate

Innovation is key to differentiating the theater experience from home viewing. Theaters can enhance the movie-going experience by offering amenities such as luxury seating, gourmet food options, and premium formats like IMAX and 4DX. Interactive and immersive experiences, such as "Flick-Syncs," where audiences participate in live-action versions of their favorite scenes, can turn movie-watching into a memorable event. Additionally, hosting themed events, film festivals, and educational screenings can attract diverse audiences and create a sense of community.

The Importance of Community and Experience

Creating a sense of community and offering a unique experience are crucial for theaters to remain competitive. By hosting events that bring people together, such as Q&A sessions with filmmakers, community fundraisers, or special interest group screenings, theaters can become cultural hubs that offer more than just movies. This sense of belonging and the opportunity for social interaction are advantages that streaming services cannot replicate.

The Role of Technology

Incorporating the latest technology can also enhance the theater experience. High-quality projection systems, superior sound, and comfortable seating can make a significant difference. Offering mobile apps for easy ticket booking, personalized recommendations, and loyalty rewards can streamline the customer experience and build long-term relationships with patrons.

Conclusion

Theater chains must adapt to the changing landscape by embracing streaming, negotiating better terms with studios, and innovating to offer unique and memorable experiences. By focusing on community, technology, and enhanced amenities, theaters can create compelling reasons for audiences to choose the big screen over their living rooms.

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4 Great Things Coming to AMC Networks

AMC Networks is going to be getting bigger, and better. Here's four great things coming to AMC Networks, and they all involve murder.

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4 Great Things Coming to AMC Networks
4 Great Things Coming to AMC Networks

4 Great Things Coming to AMC Networks

AMC Networks is set to get bigger and better with some exciting additions. Here's a look at four great things coming to AMC Networks, all centered around the timeless allure of murder mysteries.

Agatha Christie

With AMC Networks' acquisition of RLJ Entertainment, the legendary works of Agatha Christie are now part of their portfolio. Christie’s sixty-six detective novels and fourteen short story collections have defined the murder mystery genre. This acquisition means more adaptations of her stories for AMC viewers, bringing beloved characters and intricate plots to life on screen.

Tommy and Tuppence

Tommy and Tuppence, Agatha Christie's lesser-known detectives, are set to gain more attention. These Partners in Crime are known for their cleverness and charm. Their adventures, which have been adapted into various formats over the years, from silent films to TV series, will now be more accessible to a broader audience through AMC Networks.

Miss Marple

The iconic Miss Marple, known for her keen observation skills and sharp mind, will also feature prominently in AMC Networks’ future lineup. Miss Marple has been portrayed by many actresses over the years, including Angela Lansbury and Geraldine McEwan, each bringing a unique touch to the beloved sleuth.

Hercule Poirot

Hercule Poirot, perhaps Christie’s most famous detective, is renowned for his meticulous approach to solving mysteries and his distinctive mustache. David Suchet’s portrayal of Poirot is legendary, and AMC Networks will bring more adaptations of Poirot’s cases, continuing to captivate audiences with his intellectual prowess and charm.

Find Agatha Christie

With AMC Networks bringing more of Christie's works to the screen, viewers can look forward to high-quality adaptations. For the best viewing experience, ensure you have the right internet and cable packages to enjoy seamless streaming.

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Walmart to Enter the Streaming Services Ring

Vudu’s getting more help from Walmart in the battle for streaming supremacy. The retail giant is getting ready for battle before it enters the ring.

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Walmart to Enter the Streaming Services Ring
Walmart to Enter the Streaming Services Ring

Walmart to Enter the Streaming Services Ring

Walmart is gearing up to join the streaming service competition with plans to expand its Vudu platform. The retail giant aims to launch a new streaming service, leveraging Vudu's existing infrastructure. This move positions Walmart to compete with Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu by offering original content and potentially lower prices.

The Champion

Walmart's strategy involves transforming Vudu, known for renting and selling digital movies, into a comprehensive streaming service. This includes developing original content to differentiate itself from competitors and attract a broader audience. Walmart plans to integrate exclusive content, including movies, TV shows, and possibly original series, to draw in viewers.

Walmart’s Allies

To support this initiative, Walmart has partnered with Microsoft for cloud services. This collaboration enhances Walmart's online infrastructure to handle increased traffic and provide a robust streaming experience. Microsoft's Azure cloud platform will ensure that Vudu's new service can scale efficiently and deliver high-quality streaming to millions of users. This partnership also aims to improve Walmart's overall online presence, challenging Amazon on multiple fronts.

A Decisive Move

Walmart's entry into the streaming market adds another option for consumers, potentially at a lower price point than current offerings. This could appeal to middle America, an audience that may feel underserved by existing streaming giants. Walmart's vast network of stores and its established customer base provide a strong foundation for promoting the new streaming service, offering bundled deals that include discounts for Walmart shoppers.

Competing with Giants

Competing with established players like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu is no small feat. However, Walmart's approach focuses on affordability and accessibility. By offering competitive pricing and leveraging its retail presence, Walmart can attract a significant number of subscribers. Additionally, Walmart's data on consumer preferences and shopping habits can help tailor content recommendations, enhancing user experience.

Exclusive Content and Collaborations

Walmart plans to invest in producing exclusive content. Collaborations with popular studios and independent filmmakers will help create a diverse content library. Walmart may also explore partnerships with cable networks and other content providers to offer a wide range of viewing options. Exclusive deals, early releases, and unique content can help Walmart stand out in a crowded market.

Potential Challenges

Entering the streaming market comes with its own set of challenges. Securing content rights, managing large-scale streaming infrastructure, and competing with established brands require significant investment and strategic planning. Walmart must ensure that its platform offers a seamless user experience, with minimal buffering and high-quality streams, to compete effectively.

The Future of Streaming

The streaming landscape is continually evolving. Walmart's entry into this market highlights the growing demand for diverse content and affordable streaming options. As more companies enter the fray, consumers will benefit from increased competition, better content, and more choices. Walmart's strategic moves in the streaming space could set new trends and reshape how we consume digital media.

Conclusion

Walmart's foray into the streaming market through Vudu represents a significant shift in the retail giant's digital strategy. By leveraging its existing infrastructure, partnering with Microsoft, and focusing on affordability, Walmart aims to offer a compelling alternative to established streaming services. As Walmart prepares to launch its new service, consumers can look forward to more content choices and competitive pricing.

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2 Solutions for Cable-Top Boxes

As more and more devices are integrating and folding into others,there’s one stubborn resister- the cable-top box. Here's two ways to solve that issue.

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2 Solutions for Cable-Top Boxes
2 Solutions for Cable-Top Boxes

2 Solutions for Cable-Top Boxes

As technology advances, some devices stubbornly resist change—like the cable-top box. Despite the proliferation of smart-home devices, cable-top boxes remain largely unchanged. Here are two potential solutions to modernize or replace them.

Remember the First Cell Phone?

The cable-top box is akin to early cell phones: functional but clunky. Just as cell phones evolved into sleek smartphones, cable boxes need a similar transformation. They could become integral smart home hubs, controlling everything from entertainment to home automation.

Darwin’s Not Happy

Cable companies still profit from these devices, renting them to customers and resisting innovation. However, to stay relevant, they must evolve. The future of cable-top boxes lies in either adaptation or extinction.

Solution 1: Adapt

Cable-top boxes could integrate more smart home features. Jason Brush suggests making them voice-activated and more intuitive, turning them into central hubs for smart homes. This would increase their functionality and align them with modern technology trends.

Solution 2: Or Die

Alternatively, cable-top boxes could be phased out, replaced by apps on smart TVs. This would streamline the user experience, reducing clutter and simplifying controls. Although this would impact cable companies’ revenue, it aligns with consumer preferences for simplicity and integration.

The Future of Cable

Cable companies must innovate to stay competitive against streaming services. Offering bundles and cutting deals can help retain customers. The evolution of the cable-top box, whether through adaptation or replacement, is crucial for the future of cable.

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