CNN Revives Streaming Service After Three-Year Hiatus

Max Carter

Max Carter

January 23, 2025 · 3 min read
CNN Revives Streaming Service After Three-Year Hiatus

CNN is making a comeback in the streaming world, nearly three years after it shut down its short-lived streaming service, CNN+. In an internal memo, CNN CEO Mark Thompson revealed that the new service will allow viewers to stream news programming across various devices, marking a significant shift in the company's digital strategy.

The new streaming service is part of a broader restructuring plan aimed at adapting to the growing shift towards streaming. Thompson's memo highlighted the immense demand for streaming services, not just in America but across much of the world. While details on content plans and distribution partners are scarce, Thompson promised more information in the coming months.

This move comes as linear TV networks struggle to keep up with the rapid shift towards streaming. CNN, which airs a 24/7 news broadcast on Max, recently announced that it's locking some of its articles behind a paywall. The company is not alone in this endeavor, as CNBC also launched a $14.99/month CNBC Plus subscription.

The new streaming service raises questions about whether it will mirror the content on CNN's linear channel or focus on original programming, similar to CNN+. Thompson's memo did not provide clear answers, leaving room for speculation. However, the company's investment in digital video and lifestyle-oriented digital products suggests a potential shift towards more diverse content offerings.

The restructuring plan also comes with a cost, as CNN will lay off around 200 employees, making up about 6% of its workforce. Despite this, Thompson assured that the company doesn't expect total headcount to fall much this year, thanks to a $70 million investment from CNN parent company Warner Bros. Discovery.

The revival of CNN's streaming service marks a significant turning point in the company's digital strategy. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how CNN's new service fares in an increasingly crowded market. With more details expected in the coming months, one thing is clear: CNN is betting big on streaming.

For more information on the streaming wars and the latest developments in the tech industry, stay tuned to our coverage.

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