WarnerMedia provides SVOD details, hints at ad-supported streaming service

AT&T is hosting an analyst day to discuss its strategy and plans for 2019, including new details about WarnerMedia’s Netflix-competing streaming service.WarnerMedia said its direct-to-consumer product, currently scheduled for a beta launch in the fourth quarter of 2019, will feature three distinct tiers of service. An entry-level product will focus on movies, a premium service with original programming and “blockbuster movies,” and a third service that bundles content from the first two plus an extensive library of WarnerMedia and licensed content.The company said the SVOD service will complement WarnerMedia’s existing businesses including Turner, HBO and Warner Bros. The company expects the SVOD will benefit its current distribution partners, expand the audience, increase engagement around its content, and provide data and analytics.John Stankey, CEO at WarnerMedia, said the SVOD platform could attract other content companies looking for different ways to distribute their content.Despite the direct-to-consumer plans, WarnerMedia said it’s still well positioned with its existing wholesale distribution of content. The company also hinted at a potential advertising-supported video on demand service in the future.