In this special edition, we direct our focus towards the year 2024 and share some insightful predictions regarding the future of cord cutting. I would like to present to you my personal projections for 2024, but we are equally eager to hear your thoughts on the matter. Please feel free to leave a comment expressing your views. Shall we discover if our opinions align or diverge? Let’s engage in the discourse.
More Content Available for Streaming
One prominent projection we have for the year 2024 revolves around the increasing availability of content that was previously inaccessible or limited to costly live TV packages. The ongoing trend of making older shows, reruns, and sporting events more readily accessible through streaming services indicates that this development will persist in the foreseeable future. Consequently, consumers can anticipate a broader array of streaming options from multiple sources to enhance their viewing experiences.
Small Cable TV Companies Shutting Down
In the year 2023, there was a notable occurrence of numerous smaller cable TV enterprises either ceasing operations entirely or redirecting their efforts towards internet and phone services. It is envisaged that this prevailing trend will persist in 2024, resulting in further departures from the conventional TV industry. Additionally, it is anticipated that a prominent cable TV entity, possibly among the top 10, will opt to completely withdraw from live TV broadcasting and consolidate its endeavors exclusively towards internet and phone services. This transformation can be attributed to the declining profitability of live TV as well as the growing prevalence of cord-cutting among consumers.
ESPN Becomes a Direct-to-Consumer Streaming Service
Disney has consistently discussed the possibility of ESPN transitioning into a streaming service accessible directly to consumers. While specific information regarding this venture has been withheld thus far, I anticipate that, come 2024, all details, including its release date, will be disclosed. Considering the notable increase in cord cutting, it is not improbable for the launch date to be expedited to 2024. However, in the event that it adheres to its original timetable of 2025, ESPN’s streaming service will continue to be offered to consumers through cable providers and streaming platforms such as YouTube TV.
Hulu as an Add-on for Disney Plus
In the year 2024, there is a strong possibility of Hulu being integrated as an add-on service for Disney Plus, instead of existing independently. Disney has introduced a new bundled offer for both platforms, which indicates the potential for further blending of Hulu’s on-demand content with Disney Plus. This prediction is reinforced by the recent incorporation of Hulu’s content into the Disney Plus platform. Thus, it is advisable to stay alert for the prospect of a Hulu add-on option within the Disney Plus experience.
A Major Streaming Service Shuts Down
In conclusion, we anticipate that a prominent streaming service will cease operations in 2024. Given the current saturation in the streaming market, sustaining all existing services is becoming increasingly challenging. Although it is uncertain which service will be affected, I foresee industry consolidation and the integration of some platforms into larger entities such as Netflix or Paramount. This scenario could potentially grant subscribers of the discontinued service continued access to its content through an alternate streaming platform. I have shared my visions for the year 2024, and we would appreciate hearing your thoughts and opinions. Whether you agree or have differing forecasts, we invite you to provide your feedback in the comments section. Until then, Happy Streaming in 2024 and dont forget to include WowzaTV.net as one of your new destinations for free entertianment too.
Courtesy of Robert Ocasio-Entertianment Reporter for WowzaTV.net