JioCinema, Reliance Industries’ video streaming platform, has launched new subscription plans to compete with Netflix, Disney+Hotstar, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as domestic rivals in the Indian OTT sector.
JioCinema Premium offers ad-free material in several languages, including original series, films, children’s shows, and TV entertainment, on any device (including connected TV sets) for 29 per month. The startup will offer a family subscription for ₹89/month, allowing viewers to watch content on up to four devices simultaneously.
To increase revenue, streaming companies have recently deployed hybrid models (powered by both advertising and subscriptions). JioCinema launched a ₹999 annual subscription last year that includes ad-free Hollywood movies, local-language programming, and sports.
While sports content, such as the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), and some entertainment programming will remain free as part of its ad-supported offering, the new ad-free plans will include original series and films like Ranneeti: Balakot & Beyond and Murder In Mahim, among others.
Kids’ and family entertainment, including titles such as Motu Patlu, Shiva, and Rudra, as well as material from Viacom18’s local-language TV networks, such as Colours and Nickelodeon, will be ad-free, and serials will be available to JioCinema subscribers before they appear on television. The Viacom18 Network’s more than 20 TV stations will be streamable, according to the company.
Kiran Mani, CEO of Viacom 18, said, “With 4K streaming, best-in-class audio, offline viewing and no device restriction, all at a customer-centric pricing is sure to democratise access to quality entertainment for all of India.”
The new plan allows both online and offline viewing in 4K quality of films, TV shows and children’s programming on any device. This will be available in five languages and will take effect immediately. According to the company, the package provides ad-free content as well as access to exclusive series, films, Hollywood, children’s, and TV entertainment on any device, including linked televisions.
