The Nine network's recently listed parent company will launch a subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service in the second half of 2014, and may enlist rivals Seven and Ten in providing content for the yet unnamed platform. The announcement comes in the wake of Foxtel's soon to be launched Presto SVOD service, and rumours suggesting Netflix is coming soon to our shores as well.
Nine's announcement confirms earlier reports which suggested that Nine and Seven have already held high level talks on joining forces and creating their own SVOD platform to head off any potential move into the market by Netflix. Newly listed Nine Entertainment Co. informed investors of the plan to take on Netflix, with former Ninemsn executive and Cudo chief Mike Sneesby to lead the effort. Nine are prepared to go it alone, but will prefer an agreement with rivals Seven and Ten for content.
Original content will also be available on the platform.
Meanwhile, subscription TV provider Foxtel is close to launching their own SVOD platform, name Presto. Foxtel has also been in contact with the free-to-air networks regarding a partnership. At $24.99 per month, the pricing would be higher than the industry benchmark of $USD 7.99, used by both Netflix and Hulu Plus. Presto will include access to the entire Foxtel Movies library for on-demand and live access. Only PC and Macs will be supported initially by Presto, with iOS and Android support coming at a later time.
