Guests Minal Modha, Scott Bryan, Brian Merchant, and Eugene Kim discuss the dilemmas faced by streaming companies, the changing face of sports broadcasting, and concerns about AI trawling our private data. They touch on topics such as the extensive data collection by platforms like Zoom, the ethics of AI systems, the state of TV production and streaming services, different ways of consuming football, the issue of piracy in UK football, and Apple's involvement in live sports streaming.
The Premier League's next round of TV rights could see an increase in streaming options, potentially challenging the current duopoly between BT Sport and Sky.
The TV industry is shifting towards streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+, leading to challenges for traditional broadcasters in terms of advertising revenue and attracting younger audiences.
Deep dives
Premier League TV rights and the changing landscape of watching football
The next round of Premier League TV rights in the UK is set to bring changes to the way football is watched. While the headline may be slightly overbearing, there is expected to be an increase in the number of games offered for streaming, as the traditional duopoly between BT Sport and Sky is challenged. However, finding a new competitor to enter the market and buy these rights may be challenging for the Premier League. The 3 p.m. blackout rule, which prevents live broadcasting of games at that time, has led to a significant number of UK fans resorting to piracy. Streaming platforms like Amazon, as well as potential players like Apple, have been mentioned as possible contenders for the next round of auction, but it remains to be seen who will secure the broadcasting rights.
The impact of streaming on TV production and consumption
The TV industry is experiencing a shift as streaming becomes the dominant mode of content consumption. The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max has led to changes in TV production and viewership. While linear TV channels still have a role to play, the focus is increasingly on streaming and on-demand content. Broadcasters are grappling with challenges such as declining advertising revenue and the need to attract younger audiences. Additionally, there is a growing trend of ad-supported streaming services, which provide a more affordable option for consumers. However, the transition from traditional TV to streaming is not without its challenges and uncertainties, particularly with regards to monetization and rights distribution.
The changing landscape of TV and the challenges for broadcasters
The TV industry is facing significant challenges, including declining advertising revenue and changes in consumer preferences. Traditional broadcasters like ITV and Channel 4 are finding it difficult to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. There is a need for broadcasters to adapt to the new landscape and find innovative ways to attract and retain viewers. This includes offering a mix of live TV, on-demand content, and digital platforms. Additionally, rising production costs and the ongoing actors and writers strike are further contributing to the challenges faced by broadcasters. It remains to be seen how the industry will evolve and whether traditional broadcasters will be able to successfully navigate the changing landscape of TV.
Ros Atkins and guests consider the dilemmas faced by streaming companies in the face of growing costs and competition, the changing face of sports broadcasting and concerns about AI trawling our private data.
Guests: Minal Modha, Consumer Lead, Ampere Analysis; Scott Bryan, TV Critic; Brian Merchant, Technology Columnist, LA Times; Eugene Kim, Chief Tech Correspondent, Insider Business.
Presenter: Ros Atkins
Producer: Simon Richardson
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