Max Extra Member Option
Max unveiled an extra member add-on option priced at $7.99/month. The new feature includes profile transfers to the extra-member account so the additional user can pick up where they left off on content watched. Netflix started the password-sharing crackdown two years ago, with other streamers slowly following suit. Max add-on cost $1 more than the same option for Netflix. Current Max plans start at $9.99/month with ads; Standard is $16.99/month ad-free, and Premium is $20.99/month.
The Circana Take:
- The extra member add-on options are coming from the top tier streaming providers. As consumers get used to this model, expect more providers such as Paramount+ and Peacock to manage access in a similar manner. However, pricing will likely be lower for services that subscribers are not as loyal to.
Roku gets a refresh
Roku announced it will be bringing two small streaming devices to market in May. The Streaming Stick ($30) and Streaming Stick Plus ($40) are 35% smaller than competitor models. The base model includes personalized recommendations, access to many streaming channels, a voice remote and Backdrops which displays art and photos on your TV. The Plus device adds 4K and HDR streaming. Roku also unveiled new TVs with hardware innovations and other improvements offering fuller and clearer visuals and improved audio quality. The new TV features include Roku Smart Picture Max which auto adjusts picture settings depending on the scene. New software updates will make the streaming experience more personalized. Updated search features include personalized sports highlights and a "Coming soon to theaters" section for movies.
The Circana Take:
- Through advancements such as these, Roku is poised to maintain its TV OS market leading position and provide users with a premium UI experience.
YouTube TV to expand custom view options
YouTube TV will debut a new app that allows users to build more enhanced custom multiviews. Presently, the multiview features are limited to news and sports channels including some big sports events such as the NBA and NHL playoffs. Non-sports channels will be added in the coming weeks, but details have not yet been announced. Customizable multiviews allow subscribers to pick the exact channels they want to watch and arrange them in their desired order.
The Circana Take:
- Google is enhancing the user experience to further advance YouTube’s dominant streaming position.