ITV

Tag: OTT

  • Supreme Court puts OTT and social media sleaze on notice

    Supreme Court puts OTT and social media sleaze on notice

    MUMBAI:  The supreme court on Monday fired a warning shot across the bows of the government, streaming giants, and social media platforms, flagging the unchecked spread of obscene and sexually explicit content online.

    A bench led by justice B R Gavai and justice Augustine George Masih issued notices to the Centre and a who’s who of Big Tech — Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Meta, X Corp, Google, Apple, Ullu, and ALTT — after a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by journalist Uday Mahurkar and others called for urgent curbs on indecent material floating unchecked across digital platforms.

    “This petition raises an important concern,” said justice Gavai, cautioning that the issue was best left to the executive or legislature lest the court be accused of overreach. Nevertheless, he nudged solicitor general Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, to act: “Do something… something legislative.”

    Mehta did not dispute the concerns, describing some content as so perverted “that even two respectable people cannot sit together and watch,” but stressed that censorship was not an option. He added that regulations under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, were in place — and more were under contemplation.

    The petitioners, represented by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, called for the establishment of a National Content Control Authority to monitor and regulate streaming and social media output until a comprehensive law is enacted. The plea warned that without action, the flood of sexually explicit, paedophilic and perverse material could corrupt young minds, fuel deviant behaviour, and trigger a rise in crimes against women and children.

    “What was once an individual vice has now become a public menace,” the petition thundered, accusing platforms like X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, and Ullu of promoting explicit content without adequate checks.

    While the Supreme Court has not set a timeline for the next hearing, the Centre’s response will be pivotal in shaping how India reins in its booming but increasingly controversial digital content ecosystem. For India’s streaming giants, the party might just be about to face a reality check.

  • JioStar blitzes in FY 2025, clocks Rs 10,006 crore in revenue since merger

    JioStar blitzes in FY 2025, clocks Rs 10,006 crore in revenue since merger

    MUMBAI: JioStar is scripting a blockbuster success story, delivering a knockout performance since its merger launch on 14 November 2024. The entertainment juggernaut reported gross revenues of Rs 10,006 crore and an EBITDA of Rs 774 crore, posting a margin of 7.7 per cent — all while still ramping up operations.

    At the heart of this meteoric rise lies JioHotstar, the OTT powerhouse that debuted on 14 February 2025 and rapidly changed the game. Within just five weeks, JioHotstar crossed the milestone of 100 million paid subscribers — a feat unrivalled in the Indian streaming landscape. By March-end, monthly active users (MAUs) hit a staggering 503 million, thanks to a blockbuster calendar packed with the ICC Champions Trophy, IPL, and a digital library boasting over 320,000 hours of content.

    Sport was JioStar’s turbocharger with IPL 2025 opening with fireworks, clocking 1.4 billion digital views (a 35 per cent spike year-on-year), 253 million TV viewers (up 14 per cent), and a colossal 49.6 billion minutes of total watch time across platforms (up 33 per cent). JioHotstar alone posted a dazzling 38 per cent jump in digital viewership, buoyed by a 47 per cent surge in connected TV (CTV) audiences and a 60 per cent higher CTV watch time.

    The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 turned out to be another mega-hit, recording the highest TV ratings ever for a multi-nation cricket tournament in India. The tournament delivered a 4.3 TVR — a 23 per cent gain over the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 — and set a new peak concurrency record with a staggering 61.2 million live viewers during the final.

    JioStar also scored with the Tata WPL season 3, which posted a 19 per cent ratings lift and expanded its reach by 49 per cent. On JioHotstar, WPL viewership surged by 34 per cent, underpinned by a massive 130 per cent growth in CTV engagement.

    In a strategic brand play, all sports channels were unified under the Star Sports banner, now comprising 24 channels — with dedicated Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada sports offerings to deepen regional footprints.
    Beyond cricket fever, JioHotstar is claimed to be reshaping entertainment with a new wave of digital experiences. The Mahashivratri night live-stream drew an impressive 39 million views, while Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour streamed live to 8.3 million fans, bringing global experiences closer to Indian audiences.

    A new content vertical, “Sparks,” featuring short, snappy segments from India’s top digital superstars, has tapped into the nation’s appetite for quick-binge entertainment — a strategic play to capture Gen Z and millennial attention spans.

    Coupled with its arsenal of premium OTT originals and international content, JioHotstar is fast positioning itself as the de facto platform for premium digital storytelling.

    While the digital frontier blazed ahead, linear TV continued to deliver knockout blows.

    Star Plus cemented its dominance as India’s top Hindi GEC, with six out of the top 10 shows under its belt. Star Gold’s premiere of Stree 2 garnered a reach of 41.2 million, further reinforcing its draw among movie buffs.
    Regional GECs — Star Pravah (Marathi), Star Jalsha (Bengali), Star Maa (Telugu), Star Vijay (Tamil), and Asianet (Malayalam) — retained their #1 spots across states, showcasing JioStar’s deep local connect.

    Meanwhile, niche genres — Kids, Youth, and English — remained the network’s unchallenged playgrounds, extending JioStar’s leadership across every major viewer segment.

    In less than six months post-merger, JioStar has not just delivered on audacious promises — it has rewritten the rulebook. With a dominant hold across digital and linear entertainment, record-breaking sports audiences, and an evolving playbook for new-age content, JioStar is emerging as India’s undisputed entertainment giant.

    As Reliance’s media empire keeps building momentum, it’s clear that for rivals, the chase is only getting harder.

  • From screen to streaming, a new script for Indian entertainment : Ficci Frames

    From screen to streaming, a new script for Indian entertainment : Ficci Frames

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, transformation! The entertainment industry is in the midst of a plot twist as digital platforms rewrite the rules of audience engagement. At FICCI Frames 2025, industry stalwarts dissected the evolving landscape, debating whether theatres and streaming services could co-exist in a mutually profitable sequel or if the latter would be the ultimate showstopper.

    Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and Netflix India’s VP of content, Monika Shergill, took centre stage in a panel discussion moderated by Saurabh Varma of Content Engineers. The discussion zeroed in on how streaming platforms have not just altered viewing habits but also reshaped Indian storytelling.

    With India’s digital entertainment market projected to hit $13 billion by 2027, streaming platforms are no longer just an alternative, they’re an essential part of the ecosystem. Shergill highlighted how Indian content is increasingly gaining global traction, with 60 per cent of Netflix India’s viewership coming from international audiences. “The power of streaming lies in its ability to amplify diverse narratives,” she said, emphasising how regional content is breaking barriers.

    But does this mean curtains for theatres? Not quite, argued Mehta. “Cinema has a soul that streaming can’t replicate. But the audience is demanding smarter, more immersive experiences,” he noted. With over 10,000 screens in India, he said, exhibitors are innovating enhanced sound, premium formats, and event-based screenings are drawing viewers back.

    The discussion underscored that storytelling now hinges on data-driven insights. “Streaming has democratised content creation. Today, analytics shape scripts as much as creative instincts do,” said Shergill. Mehta echoed the sentiment but warned against formulaic storytelling driven purely by metrics.

    While Hindi cinema’s box office has seen a 15 per cent recovery post-pandemic, OTT subscriptions in India have skyrocketed, with 450 million users now consuming digital content. “It’s a hybrid future,” Mehta admitted. “Theatres will continue to be the temple of cinema, but streaming is the pulpit from where stories reach the world.”

    With international audiences embracing Indian content like never before, streaming platforms have become a powerful gateway for cross-cultural storytelling. From rooted Indian narratives like The Railway Men to high-octane thrillers, OTT platforms are catering to an increasingly global fanbase. “It’s no longer just about Hindi cinema; it’s about India’s rich tapestry of stories,” Shergill pointed out.

    Meanwhile, theatrical releases are also seeing a shift towards large-scale, event-driven experiences. Films that promise visual spectacle historical epics, superhero sagas, and big-ticket entertainers continue to bring audiences to cinemas. “The future of theatres lies in making movie-watching an event, not just a routine,” Mehta observed.

    As India’s entertainment industry rides this digital wave, one thing is clear content consumption is no longer bound by screens or schedules. Hybrid distribution models are emerging, where films are simultaneously released in cinemas and on streaming platforms. Innovative experiments like pay-per-view premieres and interactive storytelling formats are also gaining traction.

    “The lines between mediums are blurring, and that’s not a bad thing,” Varma concluded. “We’re in the middle of a creative renaissance where technology and storytelling go hand in hand.”

    Whether it’s a theatrical blockbuster or a binge-worthy series, the show must go on and in this digital era, the audience is always in the director’s chair.

  • Media Distillery pours AI power into search with game-changing discovery suite

    Media Distillery pours AI power into search with game-changing discovery suite

    MUMBAI: Ever felt like finding the right show to watch is harder than choosing what to eat for dinner? Media Distillery has heard the struggle and is uncorking a revolutionary solution, its new Search and Discovery Suite. Designed to make finding content as effortless as a Tik tok scroll, this AI-powered suite ensures viewers spend less time searching and more time watching.

    The video streaming industry has long battled with decision fatigue, with research showing that consumers spend over 10 minutes deciding what to watch often giving up entirely. Media Distillery’s latest suite tackles this head-on, using cutting-edge AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Visual Language Models (VLMs), and semantic search to help viewers discover exactly what they’re looking for sometimes before they even know it.

    “2025 is the year of search and discovery,” said Media Distillery CEO and co-founder Roland Sars. “With so much content available, viewers can’t always see the forest for the trees. Our AI-powered suite ensures they never miss out on great content again.”

    Instead of the usual ‘because you watched xyz’ recommendations, the Search and Discovery Suite uses AI to dynamically generate suggestions across multiple sources. Say a viewer searches for the Academy Awards the tool doesn’t just show Oscar-winning films, but also TV shows featuring the winners, red carpet highlights, interviews, and more.

    A pilot test with a major cable operator delivered impressive results, with 75 per cent of viewers discovering sports content they wouldn’t have found otherwise, while 65 per cent received more relevant sports recommendations directly on the platform, reducing their need to search elsewhere. This AI-powered intelligence goes beyond on-demand content, enabling broadcasters, live TV providers, and OTT platforms to unlock the full potential of their catalogues and enhance viewer engagement.  

    Media Distillery’s Search and Discovery Suite complements its Preview Distillery solution, offering a seamless content discovery experience. By integrating real-time broadcast content analysis, the suite enables broadcasters, operators, and OTT services to boost engagement and monetisation while keeping viewers glued to their screens.

    So, if you’re tired of endless scrolling, Media Distillery’s latest innovation ensures your next binge-worthy show is just a smart search away.

  • FICCI MEBC south kicks off with star power

    FICCI MEBC south kicks off with star power

    MUMBAI: Tamil Nadu’s media and entertainment industry took centre stage as deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and cinematic legend Kamal Haasan inaugurated the FICCI MEBC South Conclave in Chennai. The two-day event, aimed at exploring the evolution of films, television, OTT, gaming, and digital media, saw an array of industry stalwarts mapping out the future of India’s creative economy.

    Stalin unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art film city in Chennai spanning 152 acres. The ambitious project will feature cutting-edge post-production studios, animation and VFX facilities, virtual production tech, LED walls, and even a five-star hotel for industry professionals.

    Further honouring Kalaignar’s (M. Karunanidhi) vision, Stalin announced that 90 acres near Kelambakkam, previously allocated for industry housing, would now be reinstated for its original purpose following a revised government order.

    A highlight of the event was Haasan’s appointment as chairman of the FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee, south. Speaking at the conclave, Haasan emphasised the need for progressive regulations that integrate, rather than hinder, emerging technologies in cinema.

    “Indian cinema is our cultural ambassador, and we need a long-term vision for it. Both state and central governments must frame policies that encourage technology adoption without stifling existing markets,” said Haasan. He also urged the Tamil Nadu government to reform entertainment tax policies, ensuring greater ease of doing business for filmmakers.

    The conclave featured key insights from JioStar chairman of FICCI media and entertainment committee and CEO – entertainment Kevin Vaz, who celebrated south Indian cinema’s meteoric rise from regional to global prominence, thanks to blockbusters like RRR and KGF-2.

    “With digital media’s rapid expansion, India is an ‘AND’ market where TV and digital will continue to coexist. The industry is primed for a global breakthrough,” Vaz stated.

    The event will feature workshops, masterclasses, and exhibitions on key industry trends, including the global rise of Indian cinema, OTT and television’s transformation, and AI-driven innovations in broadcasting and music. With gaming, animation, and VFX booming, discussions will also focus on regulatory policies shaping the sector. PlayNext – Developer’s Day will spotlight India’s growing esports and interactive entertainment industry, reinforcing its leadership in AVGC-XR.  

    The inaugural session saw participation from Meta India’s Sandhya Devanathan, Warner Bros. Discovery’s Arjun Nohwar, FICCI Tamil Nadu State Council’s G.S.K. Velu, and a stellar line-up of media executives including Ashish Pherwani, Sanjay A. Wadhwa, Ankur Vaish, Krishnan Kutty, Ravikant Sabnavis, Munjal Shroff, Vaibhav Chavan, Jakes Bejoy, and Bejoy Arputharaj.

  • Sun TV Q3 profits plunge to Rs. 347 crore-Has the network lost Its signal?

    Sun TV Q3 profits plunge to Rs. 347 crore-Has the network lost Its signal?

    MUMBAI: Sun TV Network, once the prime-time champion of regional television, is now facing more reruns than fresh hits. The third quarter of FY25 has been less ‘superhit serial’ and more ‘filler episode’—with revenue, EBITDA, and profits all taking dramatic dives. While audiences may still be watching, advertisers have clearly flipped the channel, leaving Sun TV’s earnings on mute.

    Is this a brief ad break before the comeback, or is Sun TV headed for a season finale?

    Standalone Results

    Sun TV’s Q3 FY25 numbers resemble an ageing sitcom—still on air, but struggling for ratings. The company reported total income of Rs 927.66 crore, a decline from Rs 1,014.81 crore in Q3 FY24. The advertisement revenue stood at Rs 332.17 crore, sliding from Rs 355.43 crore last year. Clearly, advertisers are swiping right on digital and left on traditional TV.

    Subscription revenue, however, managed a 2.03 per cent growth, reaching Rs 434.51 crore—a small consolation prize in a sea of red ink. Meanwhile, EBITDA took a nosedive to Rs 432.13 crore, down from Rs 573.76 crore in Q3 FY24, reflecting higher operational costs and the ever-shrinking TV margins.

    Profit before tax (PBT) slipped to Rs 454.61 crore, down from Rs 591.31 crore last year. The real kicker? Profit after tax (PAT) dropped to Rs 347.17 crore, a steep decline from Rs 437.34 crore in Q3 FY24. A 20.6 per cent drop in net profits is enough to make any investor reach for the remote control.

    Consolidated Results

    On a consolidated level, total income stood at Rs 967.56 crore, marking a drop from Rs 1,058.66 crore in Q3 FY24. Revenues from operations were Rs 827.56 crore, a slump compared to Rs 923.15 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

    The profit before tax on a consolidated basis stood at Rs 473.87 crore, down from Rs 611.85 crore in Q3 FY24. The after-tax profits also followed the downward trend, clocking in at Rs 363.26 crore, compared to Rs 453.09 crore in the previous year’s Q3.

    While cricket franchise revenues from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Sunrisers Eastern Cape offered some cushion, their combined contribution stood at a modest Rs 0.11 crore this quarter, a stark contrast to Rs 8.98 crore in Q3 FY24. The cost of maintaining these franchises remains high at Rs 1.09 crore this quarter, squeezing margins further.

    Sun TV Network’s board has approved an interim dividend of Rs 2.50 per share, a 50 per cent payout on a face value of Rs 5.00 per share—a small consolation prize for investors watching their returns shrink faster than a bad soap opera plot twist. While this cash giveaway might sweeten the deal, will it be enough to distract from the sinking profits?

    Meanwhile, ad revenue has taken a nosedive, as brands shift their budgets towards digital darlings like YouTube and OTT platforms. Is Sun TV stuck in an old-school rerun while the world streams ahead? Or does it have one last prime-time comeback left in its script?

    With advertising dollars migrating to digital, subscription revenues becoming the lifeline, and cricket franchise earnings proving inconsistent, Sun TV has its work cut out. Will it manage to reinvent itself, or are we witnessing the beginning of a long-term fade-out? 

  • Archita Jasani joins Jojo app as VP – strategic growth & partnerships

    Archita Jasani joins Jojo app as VP – strategic growth & partnerships

    MUMBAI: In a major move within the OTT industry, Archita Jasani has been appointed as vice president – strategic growth & partnerships at Jojo App, a leading platform dedicated to premium Gujarati content. Known for her expertise in media, content strategy, and OTT growth, Jasani brings her vast industry experience to help steer Jojo App toward a dynamic and expansive future.

    Expressing her excitement, Jasani stated via Linkedin, “Jojo OTT App is reshaping the entertainment landscape for the Gujarati-speaking community, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey. The opportunity to collaborate with such a talented team and contribute to making Gujarati content more accessible, engaging, and globally relevant is truly inspiring.”

    With Jasani’s appointment, the company aims to further drive strategic expansion, forge impactful partnerships, and explore innovative opportunities to elevate the platform’s offerings and reach a broader global audience. She also aims to collaborate with industry leaders, content creators, and partners to build a platform that fosters a deep appreciation for Gujarati culture and storytelling.

    Jasani’s career is a rollercoaster of media milestones. She kicked off in 2003 at Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance before diving headfirst into the world of entertainment. From Hungama, Times Group, and Eros Now, she mastered strategy, distribution, and partnerships with a knack for innovation.

    At V Hunt Digital Media, she put Chana Jor OTT on the Gen Z map, ensuring their binge needs were met. Now, with 20+ years of experience, she’s got the strategy, the vision, and the hustle to push Jojo App into uncharted success.

    As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, Jasani extended her gratitude, saying, “Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. Here’s to new beginnings and exciting times ahead!”

  • Who Provides The Best Wifi Mesh Router?

    Who Provides The Best Wifi Mesh Router?

    A dependable and fast internet connection is a necessity nowadays. As smart devices increasingly dominate our lives and high-speed internet fuels activities from gaming to streaming, the need for effective and uninterrupted internet connectivity has surged dramatically.

    Here’s introducing the wireless mesh router – an innovative fix created to remove dead spots and provide reliable, fast Wi-Fi throughout every part of your house. However, the question persists: who offers India’s best mesh WiFi router? The solution can be found with ACT (Atria Convergence Technologies Ltd.) and its advanced offerings. Let’s take a look at what we have on offer!

    Why Choose a Mesh Router for Your Home?

    Before exploring ACT’s amazing offerings, it’s crucial to comprehend why a mesh router is revolutionary. In contrast to conventional routers, which often have difficulty providing steady coverage in spacious or multi-level homes, a mesh Wi-Fi router employs several nodes (or pods) to cover your entire area with robust and dependable internet. Whether using your home office, watching Netflix in the living room, or playing games in the basement, a wireless mesh router guarantees you remain connected without disruptions.

    Moreover, mesh router extenders effortlessly connect with the main node, eliminating the need for various network names or manual transitions between networks. This makes it a perfect option for homes with many devices and high internet consumption.

    ACT’s Game-Changing Mesh Router Plans

    ACT is a brand that distinguishes itself in terms of providing exceptional connectivity and unmatched value. ACT provides plans tailored to various needs, ensuring every customer receives an optimal mesh Wi-Fi experience. Let’s examine their best mesh wifi router in India plans:

    1. ACT Sprint Mesh Pod Bundled

    ●    Speed: 200 Mbps 
    ●    Data: Unlimited 
    ●    Mesh Routers Included: 2 
    ●    Price: ₹999/month

    This budget mesh router plan is perfect for small to medium-sized households. With speeds of 200 Mbps, it’s ideal for HD streaming, video conferencing, and moderate gaming. Including two mesh routers ensures seamless connectivity across your home, even in tricky spots like balconies or kitchens. If you want to buy mesh wifi router at the most affordable pricing, the ACT Sprint Mesh Pod Bundled plan is your go-to.

    2. ACT Storm Mesh Pod

    ●    Speed: 400 Mbps 
    ●    Data: Unlimited 
    ●    Mesh Routers Included: 2 
    ●    Price: ₹1250/month

    For those who need a little more power, the ACT Storm Mesh Pod plan delivers blazing-fast speeds of 400 Mbps. Whether downloading large files, hosting virtual meetings, or indulging in 4K streaming, this plan has you covered. The wireless mesh router setup ensures that every device in your home gets optimal speeds without lag or buffering.

    3. ACT Storm Bonanza Mesh

    ●    Speed: 400 Mbps 
    ●    Data: Unlimited 
    ●    Mesh Routers Included: 2 
    ●    Additional Benefits: Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, Zee5, Sony LIV, Sun NXT, Yupp TV, and 300+ live TV channels 
    ●    Price: ₹1600/month

    The ACT Storm Bonanza Mesh plan is the ultimate choice for entertainment enthusiasts. Combining high-speed internet with premium OTT subscriptions, this plan transforms your home into a digital haven. Whether you’re binge-watching your favourite series or catching up on live TV, the included mesh routers ensure flawless connectivity throughout.

    Why ACT Stands Out in the Mesh Router Market

    Choosing the best mesh WiFi router provider in India can be daunting, but ACT makes the decision easy with its stellar combination of technology, affordability, and added perks. Here’s why ACT is the preferred choice:

    1. Seamless Connectivity

    ACT’s mesh routers are engineered to ensure uninterrupted coverage throughout every corner of your home. Bid farewell to irritating dead zones and poor signals. Thanks to ACT’s cutting-edge mesh technology, you can experience seamless internet connectivity wherever you go.

    2. Amazing Worth for Your Money

    ACT offers exceptional value, whether looking for an affordable mesh router plan or a premium package filled with entertainment choices. Due to its attractive pricing and strong features, ACT stands out as the wirelessmesh router market leader.

    3. Lightning-Quick Speeds

    ACT provides reliable high-speed internet designed for contemporary demands. Ranging from 200 Mbps for light users to 400 Mbps for intensive tasks, there is a plan suitable for all.

    4. Exclusive Entertainment Upgrades

    With the ACT Storm Bonanza Mesh plan, you receive not just an excellent mesh router extender system. You can also gain access to premium OTT services as well.

    5. Simple Installation and Upkeep

    ACT offers the best mesh routers created for easy installation and low maintenance. The intuitive interface allows easy monitoring and management of your network, making it accessible for users without technical expertise.

    Who Should Opt for ACT’s Mesh Router Plans?

    ACT’s mesh router offerings target a diverse range of users, including:

    ●    Households: Guarantees that each individual has constant internet access for work, learning, and leisure activities.  
    ●    Gamers: Experience seamless gaming sessions with rapid speeds and minimal latency.  
    ●    Content Creators: Share high-quality videos and stream seamlessly.  
    ●    Entertainment Lovers: Enjoy your preferred films and series with ACT’s exclusive OTT subscriptions.

    How to Begin with ACT’s Mesh Router Options

    Accessing ACT’s top mesh Wi-Fi router options is easy. Here’s the method:

    ●    Select a Plan: Pick the option that aligns most with your requirements and financial considerations.  
    ●    Contact ACT: Connect with ACT through their website or customer service. 
    ●    Experience Effortless Connectivity: Discover the transformation with ACT’s advanced wireless mesh router technology.

    Summary

    In terms of providing the finest mesh Wi-Fi router in India, ACT’s offerings are unparalleled. By combining speed, coverage, cost-effectiveness, and entertainment advantages, ACT guarantees all customers an exceptional internet experience. Whether you’re looking for an affordable mesh router option or a comprehensive plan with OTT extras, ACT offers choices for everyone. Don’t accept inadequate connectivity. Get an ACT mesh Wi-Fi router plan today and turn your home into a fast, entertainment-filled paradise. Bid farewell to dead zones and welcome uninterrupted internet – with ACT.

    About ACT

    Established in 2000, ACT is one of India’s biggest broadband service providers. The firm is known for its creative solutions and focus on customer satisfaction. Driven by a goal to provide uninterrupted connectivity and unmatched value, ACT constantly sets new standards in the sector.

    Contact Information:

    Atria Convergence Technologies Ltd.  
    Customer Support: +91 9945999459 
    Email: helpdesk@actcorp.in

    Choose ACT today and experience the future of home connectivity with the best mesh Wi-Fi router plans in India! 
     

  • Hungama Digital Media rebrands as Hungama OTT for a bigger, bolder future

    Hungama Digital Media rebrands as Hungama OTT for a bigger, bolder future

    MUMBAI: Was Hungama fashionably late to the OTT party, or are they about to crash it in style? With competitors already miles ahead, it’s time to see what game-changing surprises they have in store.

    In a move that screams bigger, better, and bolder, Hungama Digital Media has rebranded its flagship Hungama app as Hungama OTT. This strategic transformation marks a major step in Hungama’s mission to create an all-in-one entertainment powerhouse, bringing together originals, blockbuster films, music, podcasts, and more under one digital roof.

    Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms—Hungama OTT offers an extensive premium content library, featuring binge-worthy Hungama originals, chart-topping music videos, Hollywood and Indian cinema blockbusters, and a treasure trove of podcasts and audiobooks. With an impressive collection of regional and international content, Hungama OTT promises something for every kind of entertainment lover.

    Since its inception, Hungama has been a trailblazer in digital entertainment, constantly evolving to keep up with user preferences and technological advancements. This rebranding reaffirms its commitment to making entertainment effortlessly accessible, ensuring that users always have something exciting to watch, listen to, or groove to.

    Movie buffs can explore 5,000+ films in English, Hindi, and regional languages, while short-film enthusiasts get access to 1,500+ critically acclaimed short films. The platform also boasts 7,500+ hours of kids’ and television content, along with 150,000+ short-format videos covering music, film gossip, humour, and spirituality.

    Hungama OTT is not just an update—it’s an entertainment glow-up of epic proportions. With a fresh identity and a content universe that keeps expanding faster than your watchlist, Hungama is redefining digital entertainment, offering users a dynamic, immersive, and endlessly binge-worthy experience.

  • FAST frenzy: Viewers binge more, advertisers cash in, everyone wins!

    FAST frenzy: Viewers binge more, advertisers cash in, everyone wins!

    MUMBAI: Not too long ago, TV lovers had two choices—pay up for endless subscriptions or rely on old-school cable. But just when you thought you were stuck juggling streaming bills like a circus act, FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) swooped in like a digital superhero. Forget flipping channels—now, viewers get premium content for free, advertisers get their dream audience, and content providers rake in the ad dollars. It’s a win-win-win, and Amagi’s latest Global FAST Report 14 Edition proves it.

    The report unveils staggering double-digit growth in both hours of viewing (HOV) and ad impressions, making it clear that FAST isn’t some fleeting trend—it’s an advertising revolution. Gone are the days when ads interrupted your binge session; now, they power the very shows you love.

    Amagi crunched the numbers from 3,300+ channels streaming via its SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion) platform, Amagi Thunderstorm. The results? A jaw-dropping 95 per cent YoY surge in global HOV and a 65 per cent jump in ad impressions—because when it comes to FAST, the stream never stops, and neither do the ad dollars. If streaming had a crystal ball, it would be flashing ‘bright future ahead!’

    Key takeaways:

    . U.S. and Canada keep the FAST train running at full throttle, contributing the lion’s share of global ad impressions and HOV. Who needs cable when free streaming is this good?

    .  APAC is the new streaming superstar, boasting a blockbuster 132 per cent YoY increase in HOV and a 130 per cent spike in ad impressions. If FAST were a stock, you’d want to buy in now.

    . LATAM and EMEA aren’t sitting on the sidelines, with entertainment, news, and documentaries leading the charge. Because who doesn’t love free content that informs and entertains?

    .  Entertainment remains the undisputed champion of FAST, making up 40–45 per cent of global HOV. Drama, reality TV, and movies—FAST has it all, without the price tag.

    .  New FAST channels are shaking up the game, with 25 per cent of global HOV and ad impressions coming from channels launched after December 2023. The future of TV is FAST, and it’s only getting started.

    The streaming wars may be ongoing, but FAST has found its niche. Unlike SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), which relies on subscription models, FAST offers premium content free-of-cost, funded entirely by ads. Viewers have spoken, and their preference for free, high-quality content has set the stage for an advertising revolution.

    Amagi’s consumer survey of 500+ U.S. households revealed key trends:

    . 75 per cent of respondents watch free, ad-supported streaming content.

    . 66 per cent reported watching FAST channels multiple times per week.

    . 67 per cent noticed and engaged with overlay ads, proving the model’s efficacy for advertisers.

    FAST isn’t just standing alone—it’s merging with traditional Pay TV and SVOD models. Pay TV services now offer FAST channels, SVOD giants like Warner Bros. Discovery are experimenting with ad-supported tiers, and FAST services are enhancing their content portfolios with premium offerings.

    With global advertisers shifting their focus from Pay TV to CTV (Connected TV) and FAST, content providers are being forced to rethink their distribution strategies. Industry leaders like Dazn are already unifying conventional broadcasting with FAST to create a seamless viewing experience.

    As more regions embrace FAST, expect to see a sharper focus on localised content, better ad targeting, and stronger partnerships between streaming giants and advertisers. The numbers don’t lie—a 95 per cent rise in viewing hours and a 65 per cent spike in ad impressions make one thing clear: FAST isn’t slowing down—it’s just getting warmed up.

    So, whether you’re an advertiser chasing eyeballs, a content creator searching for the next big platform, or just someone who loves free TV with a side of perfectly timed ads, FAST is your new best friend.