The Shift to Streaming: How ESPN, Fox, and CNN Are Redefining Live News and Sports
The walls separating cable television and streaming are collapsing quickly. For years, sports and live news were considered the glue holding the traditional pay-TV bundle together, even as scripted shows and movies migrated to Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming platforms. However, with the recent launch of new streaming services by ESPN and Fox, and CNN’s upcoming launch, it’s clear that the cable industry’s most established players are betting on a future outside the cable box.
According to a report by NurPhoto via Getty Images, the trend is driven by the increasing demand for flexible and personalized viewing experiences. As a result, traditional TV packages are being replaced by standalone apps and subscriptions that cater to individual preferences.
ESPN’s Flagship Streamer: A Game-Changer for Cord-Cutters
ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer streaming service, launched on August 21, marks a significant milestone in the shift to streaming. The service makes ESPN’s full suite of channels available for the first time without a cable subscription, including 12 linear networks, the content previously available on ESPN+, and staples like SportsCenter and First Take.
The launch coincides with the start of college football season, the NFL kickoff, the U.S. Open in tennis, and more. Accessible through an updated ESPN app, the service offers new features like multiview camera angles and a personalized, A.I.-powered SportsCenter feed. There are two main packages: ESPN Unlimited ($29.99/month or $299.99 annually) and ESPN Select ($11.99/month or $119.99 annually), which is essentially the rebranded ESPN+.
Fox One: A Bundled Approach to Streaming
Fox has launched Fox One, a $19.99-per-month service that streams all of the company’s sports, entertainment, and news content in one place. The platform builds on Fox Nation, its earlier streaming venture designed for “superfans” with documentaries, patriotic series, and next-day access to primetime shows.
Fox One goes much further, streaming Fox News Channel live, including sports and entertainment, and offering unlimited cloud DVR storage. Personalized recommendations and highlights are part of the pitch, along with bundle options. Subscribers can add Fox Nation or combine Fox One with ESPN’s new service for $39.99 per month.
CNN’s Upcoming Streaming Push
CNN will launch its own streaming product later this fall, building on its subscription package introduced in October 2024. The service will function as a true extension of the linear CNN channel, streaming live news, offering video-on-demand, and including original programming and documentaries.
Pricing remains unknown, but the new service will be distinct from CNN+, the short-lived experiment shuttered in 2022. “CNN has been leading and innovating in video-led journalism since its inception, and the expansion of our subscription offering to include streaming embodies that pioneering spirit,” said Alex MacCallum, CNN’s EVP of digital products and services. Current pay-TV subscribers will receive access to the new service for free.
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Image Source: observer.com
