ITV

Category: iWorld

  • 88 Pictures launches its gaming division – 88 Games

    88 Pictures launches its gaming division – 88 Games

    Mumbai: 88 Pictures, an animation and VFX studio from India, has launched a new gaming division, 88 Games, entering the game development sector with a focus on high-quality indie games for PC and console audiences. 88 Games aims to blend visual quality with storytelling inspired by India’s rich history and culture.

    Known for its animation work on shows like Trollhunters: Tales of Arcadia, Gremlins: Secret of Mogwai, Transformers: The Earth Spark, Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight, and Fast & Furious: Spy Racers, 88 Pictures has made a mark in international markets. With 88 Games, the studio builds on its storytelling legacy to offer interactive experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire.

    Led by industry veterans Milind D Shinde and Shiben Bhattacharjee, the team includes experienced professionals from global studios, all dedicated to creating games that showcase India’s cultural heritage.

    88 Games founder & CEO Milind D Shinde said, “88 Games represents the next step in our journey at 88 Pictures. Our team is dedicated to producing premium games that are not only visually stunning but also deeply rooted in our cultural identity. India, being one of the oldest civilizations in the world, has legends, stories, cultures, and art that have existed for thousands of years, forming a unique kaleidoscope that needs to be showcased to the world. It is an exciting challenge to translate the heritage of India into this new medium, with our mission to narrate stories based on this immense cultural capital through video games for the global audience.”

    88 Games plans to introduce titles that will give global gamers a unique glimpse into India’s folklore and history. Through intricately crafted art styles and immersive sound design, each game will present an authentic, engaging experience, drawing from classic Indian tales, legends, and mythological characters.

    “At 88 Games, we see storytelling as a powerful bridge between cultures. Our mission is to create games that entertain while connecting players to India’s rich history and mythology. As India’s gaming market rapidly expands, there remains a significant gap in the availability of high-quality PC and console games that showcase the country’s unique cultural identity. 88 Games aims to fill that void, by providing an exceptional gameplay experience to immerse and contribute to the growth of the video gaming industry,” stated 88 Games’ game director Shiben Bhattacharjee.

    88 Games has three games in development, with its first title—launching on Xbox and PlayStation—set for a reveal at the India Game Developers Conference (IGDC) 2024.

    According to Lumikai’s recent Levelling Up: State of India Interactive Media & Gaming Research FY’24 report, India’s Animation/VFX industry was valued at $1.6 billion in FY 24. The gaming market also grew by 23 million new players, reaching a total of 590 million gamers and projected to exceed $9.2 billion by FY 29, with a 20 per cent five-year CAGR.

    The union cabinet, under prime minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for AVGC-XR (animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality). PM Modi also encouraged Indian game developers to make an international impact in his Independence Day address.

    With 88 Pictures’ animation and VFX expertise, the launch of 88 Games is expected to further boost India’s role in the global AVGC-XR and gaming sectors.

  • GRB Media Ranch licenses multiple seasons of ‘Untold Stories of the E.R.’ to +SBT Brazil

    GRB Media Ranch licenses multiple seasons of ‘Untold Stories of the E.R.’ to +SBT Brazil

    Mumbai: GRB Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron announced that the company has licensed seven seasons of Untold Stories of the E.R. to Brazil’s streaming platform +SBT. The series was also recently licensed as a format to Khelgejo for production in Africa, marking GRB Media’s continued territorial and format expansion for this popular program. GRB Media Ranch acquisition & sales executive Liz Levenson will attend MIPCancun to engage with Latin American market representatives.

    Untold Stories of the E.R. is a medical docuseries re-enacting real emergency room cases, showcasing doctors’ expertise and decision-making under intense pressure. GRB Studios’ CEO, Gary R Benz created the iconic series, and he exec-produced 13 seasons within 15 years. The series has been broadcast in 214 territories and has received strong format interest.

    Ferron stated: “We’re thrilled to announce the continued success of Untold Stories of the E.R., as it finds a new home with SBT. It’s rare to come across an IP that continues to resonate with audiences across the globe year after year, and we’re incredibly grateful for its enduring appeal. This series has proven time and again that great storytelling transcends borders, and we look forward to seeing Untold Stories connecting with Brazilian viewers once more — and we anticipate it will inspire local productions in the near future.”

    SBT’s content acquisition and sales manager, Goyo Pessoa Garcia stated, “+SBT, SBT’s streaming platform, aims to bring Brazilian audiences the best content options across a wide variety of genres. Adding Untold Stories of the ER to our catalog seeks to meet the demand of viewers who crave quality docuseries productions and are drawn to the drama and emotional stories each episode brings.”

  • 4K streaming explodes on Zee5 with Hyderabad leading the charge

    4K streaming explodes on Zee5 with Hyderabad leading the charge

    Mumbai: Zee5, India’s premier home-grown video streaming platform, has released compelling data on the dramatic rise in viewership trends from July 2023 to July 2024. The report reveals an increasing appetite for premium-quality streaming, particularly in 4K, as regional content and diverse genres captivate audiences nationwide. In a noteworthy milestone, Hyderabad has emerged as India’s largest hub for 4K streaming, underscoring the rapid digital transformation and growing demand for quality streaming experiences. Tier-two and three cities have shown a strong viewership growth as well, illustrating India’s evolving entertainment landscape.

    According to Zee5’s data, 2024 witnessed a sharp rise in 4K streaming, with South India reporting a 278 per cent surge and North India leading with a 310 per cent increase in 4K viewership, particularly in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Tier-two and three markets now account for 40 per cent of Zee5’s overall viewership, while non-Hindi language content—primarily Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada—has grown to contribute 50 per cent of the platform’s total consumption. Cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi dominate content consumption among metros.

    Viewership trends further reveal a marked 25 per cent annual increase in the average time spent per user. A significant 65 per cent of users are watching movies via connected devices, reflecting a shift towards in-home cinema experiences. Drama and romance continue to be the platform’s leading genres, with South Indian viewers contributing substantially to the popularity of these categories. Over the past year, Zee5’s titles have accumulated 85 billion minutes of watch time, with dramas drawing an astounding 105 million hours and action-thriller titles capturing 32 million hours.

    Commenting on these trends, Zee5 chief business officer, Manish Kalra noted, “In the last one year, we have released several titles within our post-theatrical and original content library. The audience has spent a total of 85 billion minutes from July 2023 – July 2024 on the platform, with viewership coming in from multiple audience cohorts and geographies. With the vision of being the portal of choice for billions of viewers, we will continue to bring diverse and engaging content, with a prime focus on quality storytelling. It has been a good year for us. Our titles have received great reception from audiences not just in India but also from the global diaspora. Staying true to our commitment to bring best-in-class entertainment to our viewers, Zee5 will continue to partner with the best talents in the creative ecosystem, enhance viewing experience further, and bring forth stories that delight, engage, and entertain.”

    Highlighting the platform’s top-performing titles, Zee5’s report ranks “Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai” as the most-watched direct-to-digital movie, while the original series Taj led in overall viewership for original content. Other popular titles include Mrs Undercover, Gadar 2, and The Kerala Story, underscoring Zee5’s commitment to offering diverse and high-quality storytelling.

  • Cineflicks launches watch-to-earn model

    Cineflicks launches watch-to-earn model

    Mumbai: Cineflicks, an upcoming OTT platform, has introduced a ‘watch-to-earn’ model that rewards users with cryptocurrency tokens for every minute of content viewed. This model goes beyond traditional subscriptions, offering users both engaging content and the opportunity to earn CNF tokens, blending entertainment with digital finance.

    By accumulating CNF tokens through viewing, users unlock real-world value, differentiating Cineflicks in the crowded OTT market. These tokens can be kept as digital assets or converted into fiat currency, providing financial returns for screen time. “With Cineflicks, users are empowered to turn their viewing time into a genuine earning opportunity,” said Cineflicks CEO Thomas Caddick. “We’re transforming the streaming experience into a dynamic, rewarding ecosystem that brings together entertainment and the fast-growing world of digital assets.”

    Before launch, Cineflicks will hold a CNF Token presale, giving early investors access to tokens at a pre-market rate. This presale aims to build an engaged community and generate excitement for the full launch. Cineflicks plans to create a vibrant user base with a community-based approach that blends entertainment and finance.

    Upon launch, Cineflicks will offer a catalogue of movies, TV shows, and exclusive content, all accessible across multiple devices with a user-friendly interface. Regular content updates will keep the platform fresh and engaging.

    The ‘watch-to-earn’ model rewards users based on viewing time instead of subscriptions. Cineflicks’ blockchain system ensures secure, transparent transactions, appealing to both casual and tech-savvy viewers interested in cryptocurrency. By merging streaming with digital assets, Cineflicks offers a new perspective on the OTT space, providing entertainment along with a stake in the growing digital ecosystem.

    Cineflicks’ launch has already gained attention from both the entertainment and digital finance sectors, with its model potentially shifting OTT viewer dynamics. As the platform prepares for its app launch and token presale, industry observers are eager to see how this approach will affect the streaming market. Cineflicks aims to redefine how audiences interact with content in the digital age by turning screen time into an investment.

  • 5G revolution in India strikes the Indian Smart TV market

    5G revolution in India strikes the Indian Smart TV market

    Mumbai: The fifth generation (5G) of cellular networks has given rise to a new era of high-performing connectivity in India. This telecommunications milestone is already revolutionizing several industries and how they function. Agriculture, education, manufacturing, farming, and healthcare have all been engulfed in the wave of innovations ushered by 5G.

    As the 5G wave begins to reshape the digital landscape in India, entertainment, and media are not far behind. 5G has enabled high-quality, buffer-free streaming and interactive experiences like 360-degree live sports events. 5G-powered VR experiences have become commonplace, and this technology has truly widened the scope of entertainment. The consumer electronics sector, especially the modern household staple Smart TVs, has been influenced to a tremendous degree by this seismic advancement in connectivity.

    Smart TVs have already transformed at-home viewing by merging streaming, apps, and internet browsing – all into one single platform. This advancement was achieved on the backs of 4G networks, where speeds peak at 100 to 200 Mbps. 5G changes the game completely, with a hundredfold increase in speeds reaching up to about 10 Gbps. It provides improved latency and an increased range for holding up to 100 times more traffic. This further transforms Smart TVs and expands the scope of seamless entertainment. How fast the pace of this transformation would be now depends on the level of accessibility an average consumer has to this network.

    5G’s rapid yet developing expansion not only meets the high-data demands of urban consumers but also manages to tap into the demands of rural and semi-urban consumers that previously faced connectivity challenges. As per Ericsson’s Mobility Report, 5G subscriptions in India are projected to increase from 119 million at the end of 2023 (representing 10% of all mobile subscriptions) to a staggering 840 million by the end of 2029, constituting 65 per cent of the total subscriptions. With leading Indian telecom players contributing to the country’s connectivity ecosystem, the deployment of 5G and its observed response has established India as a pivotal nation in the global telecom landscape.

    Expanding the scope of smart TVs

    With the advent of 5G, Smart TVs have become a Swiss Knife of sorts when it comes to entertainment. Think of it as technology on steroids. The new available high-speed connectivity allows Smart TVs in India to stream Ultra-HD and even 8K content without buffering. Global OTT platforms that offer services in India are already optimizing their services for 8K. The low-latency connections offered by 5G enable more efficient cloud gaming directly on Smart TVs without gaming consoles including multiplayer AR/VR games. During the last 2023 World Cup, the mix of 5G connectivity and Smart TVs made it possible for viewers to enjoy buffer-free live sports streaming, with features like multi-angle viewing and instant replay.

    Integration of AI and IoT devices into Smart TVs has been possible because of 5G. This allows for tailored recommendations based on consumers’ viewing habits. 5G-enabled Smart TVs use AI-driven personalized content suggestions, and a large segment of viewers prefer to engage with personalized content recommendations on streaming platforms, increasing watch time.

    Beyond entertainment, 5G-enabled Smart TVs have transformed homes into hubs for connectivity where users can control home appliances, lighting, and security cameras from their TV interface.

    Expansion of IoT-driven electronics

    India also proves to be an emerging IoT (Internet of Things) market for multiple industries primarily due to the rise in integration and creation of IoT-enabled products and services. The arrival of 5G comes at a time when its implementation delivers remarkable response times when coupled with IoT applications. Thus, making smart devices even smarter and more efficient by enhancing their performance in real-time.

    As per iLounge’s article on The Impact of 5G on IoT Adoption and Implementation, “The improved features of 5G can also empower the creation and activation of more advanced IoT devices. Such devices will run faster, respond quicker, have longer battery life, and carry more complex tasks. This not only will enhance the efficiency and reliability of current IoT devices but will also create new possibilities for use cases and business models.” For instance, 5G networks reduce response times in IoT applications from 50 milliseconds to 1 millisecond, a boost particularly beneficial for real-time applications like autonomous vehicles and remote healthcare. This growth not only expands IoT’s reach but also reinforces India’s position as a leading market for IoT innovation for the years ahead.

    The convergence of 5G connectivity and Smart TV will be the backbone of intelligent entertainment systems. The day is already upon us when TV isn’t just a device for viewing, but a portal to more immersive experiences that cater to our needs in real time. This future is fast, incredible where innovations are endless, and the best part is that this amazing new journey has just begun.

  • TVOD & consumer behavior: What do viewers really want?

    TVOD & consumer behavior: What do viewers really want?

    Mumbai: The consumption landscape in media is evolving drastically. Streaming services have driven about a revolution when it comes to media consumption. It is a thing of the past that viewers were bound to linear television schedules. Today, the list of different models for delivering digital content ranges from TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand), SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), AVOD (Advertising-based Video on Demand), and HVOD (Hybrid Video on Demand). Each mode has its upsides and downsides, but the thing one must ask is: what do viewers prefer as they choose to opt for one model over another?

    Let us take a closer look at how TVOD has changed consumer behavior and what sets it apart from SVOD, AVOD, and HVOD with a focus on understanding what drives viewers towards one platform and service model as opposed to another.

    Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD)

    TVOD is one where viewers pay for one piece of content. Instead of signing up for an entire service or watching with ads, viewers may be able to pay once for a movie, episode, or series rental or purchase. Platforms that use the TVOD model include iTunes, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video-where viewers can rent or buy individual titles outside of its subscription offering.

    Types:

    ●      EST (Electronic Sell Through) – The customer buys the content, and it belongs to him or her permanently.

    ●     DTR (Download to Rent) – The consumer downloads the content for a specific time period, usually 24-48 hours after which he or she will not be able to avail the content.

    Consumer Behaviour and TVOD

    The primary attraction of TVOD is flexibility. Consumers can choose only that content in which they are genuinely interested and skip recurring subscription fees or advertisers’ assaults. This is very appealing to those who consume media in a spotty fashion or are mostly interested in new releases, premium content, or films not distributed on subscription platforms.

    Benefits of TVOD

    1. Exclusivity and premium content for pay: TVOD, as a unit compared with the others, typically carries new releases and premium content that are not found on the other platforms. The consumers who want to keep up with the newest blockbuster films or series will not mind paying.

    2. Control and Flexibility: TVOD allows viewers to never have to pay a monthly fee with the firmness that says they can spend their money when and how they choose to. If you watch only one or two movies a month, then this is a cheaper option in comparison to most SVOD services.

    3. Ownership: Est makes it possible to allow the user who buys content in TVOD to own content which then allows him/her to access whatever they have bought at any time. That is what increases an appeal to consumers looking to create digital libraries.

    4. No Commitment: TVOD does not require contractually long subscriptions. People enjoy the ability to consume content on a transactional basis, not obligated to commit long-term for recurring subscription payment.

    The downside of TVOD

    TVOD’s drawback is that costs can add up quickly. Several purchases per month can easily escalate into a sum more expensive than an SVOD subscription, especially if the consumer has large viewing appetites. And if one isn’t sure about the quality or appeal of content, the upfront price can be daunting.

    TVOD Vs SVOD, AVOD and HVOD

    Each of the delivery models attracts a different kind of consumer. Media companies interested in optimizing services understand the nuances in consumer behavior across such models.

    SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand)

    The SVOD model refers to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ that grant viewers access to their respective catalogs for a fixed monthly or annual fee. During the subscription period, consumers have unlimited access to the catalog.

    Consumer Behaviour in SVOD

    – Binge-Watching Culture: SVOD made binge-watching trendy, where all the seasons and even the whole catalog can be binge-watched without interruption using SVOD. The advantage of uninterrupted viewing, which users prefer to make a “content buffet.”

    – Cost-Efficiency: For frequent viewers of content, SVOD seems cheaper than TVOD. To them, paying a monthly fee for access to thousands of titles is perceived as better value than paying for individual titles using TVOD.

    – Loyalty and Engagement: The SVOD focus is on brand loyalty through original programming, exclusive content, and user-friendly interfaces, for they come back with constant updates in the content catalog.

    – No Interruptions: Most SVOD services are ad-free and attract those who enjoy an unbroken experience.

    The downside of SVOD

    The disadvantage of SVOD is content saturation. With this much content, it is easy for viewers to be overloaded or lose interest in any title. More importantly, the popular content may become outdated and removed from the platform, thereby leaving subscribers unhappy with the fact that their favorite shows or movies are no longer available.

    AVOD (Advertising Video on Demand)

    AVODs, such as YouTube, Tubi, and Peacock (free tier), are free to consumers but advert-driven. Consumers must watch advertisements to be able to see the content.

    Consumer Behavior on AVOD

    – Price Sensitivity: AVOD appeals to the price-sensitive customer who is willing to pay in terms of inconvenience of ads for free content access. It appeals to casual viewers, who are less likely to commit than to a paid subscription or one-time TVOD purchase.

    – Ad Tolerance: The very first compromise viewers have to make is advertisements along the way. Perhaps viewers who want it to be seamless and continuous would not find AVOD palatable. However, the younger audience – including Gen Z and Millennials – are accustomed to ad-supported content as the case is with YouTube platforms.

    – Broad Access: AVOD platforms enjoy a wide, varied library entries, although, less of new releases and premium compared to SVOD or TVOD.

    The downside of AVOD

    The critical drawback it has is dependency on ads, which can be disturbing for the viewer. For content creators, AVOD may not always prove the most financially rewarding, due to fluctuating ad revenues.

    HVOD (Hybrid Video on Demand)

    HVOD is a combination model that carries both a subscription model and an ad-supported model. It falls between SVOD and AVOD as it meets the demand for services that charge less for the subscriptions with a monetization of ads to offer premium content to the consumer.

    Consumer Behaviour in HVOD

    – Middle Ground: The model speaks to a consumer who wants premium content at a lower price but who would be willing to tolerate some ads in order to access it. This model has typically attracted consumers because consumers are seeing it as the best of both worlds, such as lower subscription fees with some inconveniences from ads.

    – Personalisation: With most HVOD services offering an ad-free tier at a higher subscription price, it leaves the burden on the consumer’s choice on how they prefer to enjoy the show. This is appealing for those who want to balance cost and convenience in achieving their viewing needs.

    However, with this ad-subsidized nature of HVOD platforms, the end-users get frustrated and annoyed to have uninterrupted viewing without having to pay extra for the ad-free view.

    What do viewers really want?

    The choice among TVOD, SVOD, AVOD, and HVOD majorly depends upon the individual preferences and the modes of preference. Now, let’s take a look at what drives consumer behavior across these models:

    1. Convenience: Consumers prefer convenience and accessibility. Consumers seeking to watch all the content at one place without breaks gravitate toward the SVOD platform. For new releases to be watched immediately without making a subscription, consumers are drawn toward TVOD.

    2. Cost Sensitivity: Cost-sensitive consumers will gravitate to AVOD for free content availability, no matter the price they have to pay in terms of watching advertisements. Heavy content consumers will benefit more by paying for the SVOD subscription.

    3. Personalisation: TVOD and HVOD Provide for a lot more personalization. With TVOD, the viewer can essentially pay for just what they watch while with HVOD subscription terms and ad exposure offer options and an avenue for variation. Personalization has been the new battleground as more competition bids for the users that crave more control over how media is consumed.

    4. Ad Tolerance: AVOD as well as HVOD models test out the tolerance for ads. The young viewers will be more likely to accept ads if that content would stream free or at a lower price.

    TVOD meets the appetite for premium, flexible content access – mainly, for viewers reluctant to invest in a subscription. On the other hand, SVOD leads in very large libraries and binge-friendly experiences and AVOD, HVOD in cheap content at an ad compromise. All this understanding lets them better serve their audience through content that really resonates with expectations.

  • Deltin Royale-Goa brings together 45 nations for a unique gaming experience

    Deltin Royale-Goa brings together 45 nations for a unique gaming experience

    Panaji: Deltin Royale announced its “Golden Book of World Records” achievement, with 45 nationalities coming together to play “Spin Wheel” onboard the ship.

    Deltin Royale hosted the esteemed delegates of Amazing Goa Global Business Summit 2024 from different parts of the world on 8 November. The group included delegates from Canada, Finland, France, Azerbaijan, Angola, Armenia, Australia, Bhutan, Estonia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, St. Kitts, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, UAE, UK, USA, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, and Egypt who came together to set a record of 45 nationalities playing a game together at Deltin Royale, Goa. The evening was vibrant,  Deltin ensured that the delegates had the opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow participants in a fun and relaxed setting while creating the record.

    “We are incredibly proud to have been a part of this landmark event,” said Delta Corp Ltd. COO Manoj Jain. “We are thrilled to have brought together delegates from over 45 nations to set a Golden Book of World Records title onboard Deltin Royale. This event aligns perfectly with our vision to create unparalleled experiences that bring people closer through entertainment, culture, and shared moments. Hosting this event during the Amazing Goa Global Business Summit 2024 highlights Goa’s potential as a global business hub, and we look forward to many more such milestones.”

    Adding to the excitement, Delta Corp Ltd. deputy vice president-marketing & communications, Arindam Basu  said, “This achievement is a perfect example of the power of unity and cultural exchange. Deltin has not only set a record but has stood true to its promise of bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in an environment of camaraderie and joy.”

    Golden Book of World Records Asia head, Dr. Manish Vishnoei commented, “We congratulate Deltin and Vibrant Goa Foundation in making this event an exceptional success. A world record of this sort is truly a remarkable feat and difficult to come by. We hope Deltin Royale retains this record for a very long time.”

    Amazing Goa Global Business Summit 2024 chief mentor Dr. Jagat Shah, expressed his joy on the record and said, “Amazing Goa Global Business Summit is Goa’s largest Global Business Summit, hosted by the Vibrant Goa Foundation in association with the Goa Government, where innovation meets tradition and export opportunities abound. This unforgettable achievement by Deltin, Vibrant Goa Foundation and its delegates of multiple countries, adds a special feather to our cap which we will cherish forever.”

  • RCOM reports mixed Q2 amid insolvency struggles

    RCOM reports mixed Q2 amid insolvency struggles

    Mumbai: In the latest financial disclosure, Reliance Communications Limited (RCOM) reported its unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter and half-year ending 30 September 2024. The announcement, dated 9 November 2024, was made under the oversight of the resolution professional, Anish Niranjan Nanavaty, as the company remains under corporate insolvency resolution since 28 June 2019.

    For the quarter ending 30 September 2024, RCOM’s consolidated total income stood at Rs 97 crore, reflecting a slight decrease from Rs 100 crore in the previous quarter. The company reported an operating loss of Rs 32 crore, widening from a loss of Rs 19 crore in the preceding quarter. The net loss for the quarter was Rs 1,060 crore, an improvement from the Rs 1,965 crore loss reported in the previous quarter.  

    The operating margin for the quarter was -32.99 per cent, compared to -19 per cent in the previous quarter, indicating increased operational challenges. The depreciation and amortisation expenses rose to Rs 34 crore from Rs 32 crore, suggesting ongoing capital expenditure and asset utilisation.

    Since the initiation of the insolvency process in June 2019, RCOM has faced multiple operational and structural obstacles, with the National Company Law Tribunal overseeing its recovery and management efforts. The impact of these challenges is evident in the subdued financial performance across segments. Cost-cutting initiatives, though visible, remain inadequate to counterbalance the income reductions from discontinued services and stagnant growth.

    As RCOM pivots its strategy to maximise value during insolvency proceedings, its existing customer base and asset utilisation are pivotal to short-term stabilisation. Nonetheless, substantial debt obligations and restricted access to capital raise questions about RCOM’s capability to weather the long-term implications of market pressures without a viable merger or acquisition plan.

    Key Financial Highlights

    •    Total Income: Rs 97 crore (Q2 FY2024-25)

    •    Operating Loss: Rs 32 crore

    •    Net Loss: Rs 1,060 crore

    •    Operating Margin: -32.99 per cent

    •    Depreciation/Amortisation: Rs 34 crore

    These figures reflect the company’s ongoing efforts to manage its financial health amid challenging circumstances.

    The future trajectory of RCOM hinges largely on its restructuring efforts and external support from potential investors. While the telecom industry’s competitive intensity shows no signs of abating, any potential buyer would inherit both the legacy issues and opportunities presented by RCOM’s extensive infrastructure. Stakeholders continue to monitor how RCOM will leverage or offload these assets within the constraints of its insolvency resolution process.

     

  • OTTplay partners with Connect Broadband

    OTTplay partners with Connect Broadband

    Mumbai: OTTplay, an OTT app and AI-based recommendation platform has partnered with Quadrant Televentures (Connect Broadband), a major internet service provider in North India, to enhance digital entertainment access. Through this alliance, users can access 25 popular OTT platforms via broadband plan subscriptions.

    Quadrant Televentures’ extensive FTTH network across Punjab, Chandigarh, and parts of Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir supports this initiative, delivering high-speed internet alongside premium entertainment. Newly launched plans cater to various internet speed needs, with seamless access to OTT platforms such as Sony Liv, Zee5, Chaupal, LionsgatePlay, Fancode, PTC, Shemaroo, and Cinemaworld, all available in a single subscription.

    The partnership includes five broadband plans with access to all 25 OTT apps: ₹519 (30 Mbps), ₹619 (60 Mbps), ₹719 (100 Mbps), ₹819 (150 Mbps), and ₹919 (200 Mbps).

    OTTplay CEO & co-founder Avinash Mudaliar said, “Our latest partnership with Quadrant Televentures Limited reflects OTTplay’s commitment to delivering the best digital experiences to our customers and viewers in Punjab. With Quadrant Televentures Limited reliable high-speed internet, we’re bringing an impressive selection of entertainment options to households, tailored for the rapidly growing demand for quality regional and international content. We are hopeful that this partnership will further enable us in reaching a larger audience and enable the best of OTT entertainment for them in this digital era.”

    A Quadrant Televentures’ management added, “We’re pleased to partner with OTTplay to bring an enhanced entertainment experience to our existing and new subscribers. We are confident that this partnership will strengthen our offerings with bundled plans that provide high-speed broadband, unlimited voice, and a rich OTT content package all under one umbrella, which is designed to deliver excellent value and meet the evolving needs of our customers in the region.”

    Through their partnership, OTTPlay and Quadrant Televentures offer access to 25 popular streaming platforms, including Sony Liv, Zee5, Shemaroo, Playflix, Fancode, PTC, Stage, Distro, VROTT, Chaupal, OTTPlay TV, CinemaWorld, OM TV, RunnTV, ShortsFndly, Dollywood, PowerKids, PrimeFlix, BhaktiFlix, Sanskar TV, Alt Balaji, Lionsgate, Ultra Jhakaas, and Dangal. This wide selection brings diverse, high-quality content to homes across Punjab.

    Users in Punjab can enjoy seamless streaming with a variety of content options, catering to different preferences and budgets.

  • Five must-do activities in Delhi-NCR this month

    Five must-do activities in Delhi-NCR this month

    Mumbai: The festive season in India might have come to an end, but the excitement in Delhi-NCR is just heating up. The capital city, known for its rich history, vibrant social life and delectable food, is hosting a range of exciting events before the calendar flips. If you are looking to make the most of the end of November, here is a compiled list of all the happening events lined up in the capital that will leave a lasting impression:

    Prateek Kuhad’s Silhouettes tour

    After traversing through North America, Australia, the UK, Europe, and West Asia, the Silhouettes Tour has finally reached India. So, surrender yourself to the soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics of Prateek Kuhad on 23 November 2024, at Airia Mall, Gurugram. Renowned for his versatile and experimental creations, Prateek craftfully blends acoustic, indie, and soulful melodies that stir the soul and resonate long after the notes fade.

    Sahitya Aaj Tak

    For all the book and literature enthusiasts, Sahitya Aak Tak is an unmissable treasure. The annual literary event, organised at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium from 22 to 24 November 2024, will be graced by renowned authors, poets, and thought leaders. So here is a chance for you to celebrate the art of storytelling and engage in enriching discussions with fellow literature lovers and broaden your horizons.

    Rajadhiraaj: Love. Life. Leela.

    After 24 electrifying sold-out shows in Mumbai, ‘Rajadhiraaj: Love. Life. Leela.’ is finally arriving in Delhi. The world’s first mega-musical on the life of Shri Krishna will premiere at Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Auditorium from 29 November to 8 December 2024. Conceptualised by Dhanraj Nathwani, the musical will take you on a spiritual tour through the divine journey of Krishna’s life with its captivating storytelling, soulful music, graceful choreography, grand set, and stunning costume.

    Burrp Fest

    If food is what brings you joy, if food is what fuels your passion, then tantalise your taste buds with scrumptious delicacies at the Burrp Fest. From 29 November to 1 December 2024, visit the Garden of Five Senses for a delightful gastronomic adventure. Explore new dishes from around the world and indulge in a feast of flavours.

    Max Amini

    If a dose of healthy laughter and humour is what you are after, join Max Amini at Bharat Mandapam on 30 November 2024. Instagram’s famous comedian is on his way to India for a standup comedy tour that you cannot miss. Get your tickets before they are sold out for an unforgettable experience.