Sky has unveiled a brand new streaming service called Sky Showtime, which unlocks access to its exclusive scripts, films, documentaries and more. The video-on-demand platform, which is set to compete with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, includes shows and films on Sky Q as well as content from NBCUniversal and ViacomCBS, which is behind popular channels such as Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures and ShowTime (hence the name).
According to Sky, more than 10,000 hours of entertainment will be streamed on Sky Showtime at the start. Unfortunately, there’s no information on pricing for the streaming service just yet, but we expect Sky Showtime to drop around the £ 10 a month we’ve seen from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney +, and others.
Both NBCUniversal and ViacomCBS own and operate their own streaming services in the United States known as Peacock and Paramount +, respectively. However, none of these platforms has expanded internationally. Sky has already announced agreements with both companies to bring exclusive shows and films from these streaming services to Sky Q and NOW (formerly NOW TV) in the UK. The launch of Sky Showtime is the latest addition to this deal.
Sky Showtime currently has no plans to launch in the UK.
Sky already operates its streaming platform NOW, available on a staggering number of game consoles, streaming set-top boxes and smartphones, for contract-free access to its portfolio of sporting events, Hollywood blockbusters, original dramas and exclusive shows from The United States. For those who like it a little more permanent, Sky Q offers the same range of channels via satellite. And there are still plans to bring the entire Sky Q service to a broadband connection soon.
Instead, Sky Showtime will be available in areas without access to the same options as UK viewers. Subject to regulatory approval, Sky Showtime ultimately hopes to be streamed in Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Kosovo, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
Dana Strong, Sky Group Chief Executive, said, “Our new streaming service SkyShowtime will combine the best of the US and Europe with iconic brands and world-class entertainment for millions of consumers in more than 20 new markets in Europe After Peacock joins Sky is, this partnership represents an innovative approach to rapidly scale internationally and monetize content across Europe. Based on the strength of the incredible programs from NBCUniversal, Sky and ViacomCBS and supported by Peacock’s platform technology, SkyShowtime will be a truly compelling offering for the whole family and a strong brand awareness in these regions. “
Sky has confirmed that further details on Sky Showtime’s offering, including subscription pricing, will be announced at a later date.
