Apple's new feature & potential ads business + more HBO Max layoffs & chaos | E1538

TL;DR

Streaming has officially surpassed cable as the dominant form of content consumption, accounting for 34.8% of total consumption in July.

Transcript

all right everybody super fun Thursday show on this week in startups today first up a new segment little big things this is little things we're noticing in products that are awesome or that suck and today Apple news is in my crosshairs with one thing that's awesome and then one thing that really sucks yeah how a little bit thing can lead to a big c... Read More

Key Insights

• 📰 Audio versions of articles in Apple News have the potential to transform the way news is consumed, offering a new revenue stream for publishers.
• 🥺 Layoffs at HBO and HBO Max suggest a shift in focus towards different genres, potentially leading to changes in the types of content produced by the platforms.
• 💾 The removal of titles from HBO Max may be a strategic move to save costs on residual payments and explore other licensing opportunities.
• 💗 Streaming has surpassed cable in total consumption, highlighting the growing dominance and popularity of streaming platforms.

Questions & Answers

Q: Will Apple News' audio feature change the way people consume news?

Apple News' audio feature has the potential to revolutionize news consumption, allowing users to listen to articles rather than read them. This could lead to new revenue streams and a more convenient way to stay informed.

Q: How will the layoffs at HBO and HBO Max affect the content they produce?

The layoffs primarily impact the unscripted and live-action family programming departments, suggesting a shift in focus towards other genres. This could result in a change in the types of content produced by HBO and HBO Max.

Q: Why did HBO Max remove 36 titles, including 20 originals?

The removal of these titles may be a cost-saving measure, as the streaming platform can avoid ongoing residual payments to the creators and actors. It could also be a way to renegotiate rights and potentially license the content elsewhere.

Q: How will the streaming industry continue to evolve?

With streaming surpassing cable as the dominant form of content consumption, we can expect to see more streaming platforms, increased competition, and a focus on original content. The industry will continue to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Apple News introduces new feature of audio versions of articles, potentially revolutionizing news consumption and creating a new revenue stream.

• HBO and HBO Max lay off 70 employees, primarily in the unscripted and live-action family programming departments, as they merge with Discovery.

• HBO Max removes 36 titles, including 20 originals, from its streaming platform, potentially saving money on residual payments and renegotiating rights.