Alex Cranz, a technology reporter at The Verge, and Bobby Waters, a bass singer and TikTok personality, dive into the evolution of streaming services heading into 2024. They discuss the viral success of sea shanties on TikTok and its impact on music trends. Cranz predicts which platforms, like Netflix and Hulu, might dominate and examines the challenges faced by Paramount Plus. The conversation also touches on the creative collaborations among bass singers and how emotional responses are shaped by music on streaming platforms.
Netflix is expected to have a solid year in 2024 with a diverse range of content and investment in high-budget shows and reality TV.
Disney Plus may struggle in 2024 due to a lack of highly anticipated shows and limited variety in their programming.
Hulu is positioning itself as the go-to platform for linear television shows and acquired content, steadily building a strong library.
Peacock's success in sports offerings positions it as a potential strong player in the streaming industry, with the possibility of an acquisition or partnership further solidifying its position.
Apple TV Plus is likely to have a successful year in 2024 with its strong lineup of high-quality shows and diverse content, attracting audiences with its thoughtfully selected programming.
Deep dives
Netflix: A consistent player in the streaming industry
Netflix is expected to have a good year in 2024, thanks to their solid programming slate and a diverse range of content. The streaming giant continues to invest in both high-budget prestige shows and popular reality TV, catering to a wide audience. While they might not have groundbreaking hits like Stranger Things this year, their overall performance is expected to be solid.
Disney Plus: Facing challenges in 2024
Disney Plus may struggle in 2024 with a lack of highly anticipated shows and limited variety in their programming. While they have successful Marvel and Star Wars franchises, there is a growing fatigue with these brands, and other original content offerings seem limited. The potential merger with Hulu brings hope for a boost, but for now, it seems like Disney Plus might face difficulties.
Hulu: A reliable platform for acquired content
Hulu is positioning itself as the go-to platform for linear television shows and acquired content. As more shows find a new home on Hulu, it is steadily building a strong library of popular and diverse content. The potential merger with Disney Plus adds the possibility of even more growth and success for Hulu.
Peacock: Gaining momentum with sports offerings
Peacock had a major win with its sports offerings in 2023, and it is expected to build on that momentum in 2024. While its scripted programming might not be as strong, the success in the sports realm positions Peacock as a potentially strong player in the streaming industry. The possibility of an acquisition or partnership could further solidify its position.
Apple TV Plus: A strong contender with high-quality shows
Apple TV Plus is expected to have a successful year in 2024 with a strong lineup of high-quality shows and a hit rate that impresses viewers. The service has become known for its thoughtfully selected programming, attracting audiences with its diverse and compelling content. As a cultural powerhouse, Apple TV Plus is likely to continue gaining popularity.
Amazon Prime Video: Challenges ahead with programming choices
Amazon Prime Video may face difficulties in 2024 due to a lack of successful shows and missteps in its programming choices. While the service has the resources and reach to make an impact, its investment in shows that fail to resonate with audiences raises concerns. Amazon might pivot more towards being a subscription movie rental service rather than a prominent streaming platform.
Additional Predictions
- Hulu will be merged into Disney Plus this year, resulting in a unified service with an expanded content library.
- Advertising will become a less prominent topic in the streaming industry as ad-supported models become more common and widely accepted.
E-ink tech at CES 2024
At CES 2024, E-ink showcased various signage applications of their technology, including a smartphone and a laptop with E-ink displays. These devices focused on using E-ink as customizable wallpaper rather than for reading purposes. It offered vibrant colors and wireless charging compatibility. Additionally, E-ink displays were incorporated into smart home devices for improved user experience. Though no notable E-ink watch was seen, there is anticipation for future developments in E-ink technology, such as full-color displays and faster refresh rates.
Predictions and Insights on Streaming Services
The podcast episode discussed various streaming services, such as Hulu, Max, and Paramount Plus. It was noted that Hulu's focus is on being the go-to platform for popular shows and exclusive content, benefiting from its connection with ABC and FX. Max, on the other hand, still maintains a strong focus on signage, but is exploring the use of E-ink displays on smartphones as customizable back covers. Paramount Plus was mentioned as a company that has been steady in the streaming industry, with a focus on thoughtful programming and user-friendly interfaces. The podcast also predicted that fast channels with ad-supported models will continue to grow, driven by increased ad revenue and improved user interfaces. Furthermore, there was hope for a universal streaming guide that integrates all streaming platforms, making content discovery easier for viewers.
Today on the flagship podcast of endlessly looping sounds:
02:33 - David Pierce dives into one piece of music that has taken over "North Sea TikTok"
20:45 - Alex Cranz joins the show to preview new TV shows coming to streaming in 2024, and gives predictions about which streaming service will come out on top this year.
55:36 - This week's Vergecast Hotline question about E Ink at CES.
Email us at vergecast@theverge.com, or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love to hear from you.
