Viacom18’s JioCinema and Voot Merger Successfully Concludes, Accompanied by a Remarkable 90% Transition of Voot Select Subscribers to JioCinema
Bengaluru, NFAPost: In a sweeping transformation of India’s media and entertainment industry, Viacom18 has reached an advanced stage in merging its two prominent Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, JioCinema and Voot. This strategic manoeuvre marks a significant shift in the country’s digital streaming landscape, with far-reaching implications.
Unification of Platforms
The merger has brought about the dissolution of Voot as a standalone platform, both functionally and visibly. A simple Google search for Voot now redirects users to the JioCinema website, effectively consolidating Viacom18’s OTT presence under a single, formidable brand. This strategic move extends to app platforms, where only the JioCinema app is now available, ensuring a cohesive and streamlined user experience.
The Synergistic Merger
The journey towards this merger gained momentum in April 2023 when Viacom18 executed a complex merger scheme involving Reliance Industries, Bodhi Tree Systems, and Paramount Global. This intricate dance of corporate interests paved the way for the integration of JioCinema into Viacom18, positioning it as the primary platform for marquee content. A noteworthy feather in Viacom18’s cap is its acquisition of streaming rights for the Indian Premier League (IPL), a testament to its commitment to providing diverse and high-quality content to its audience.
Evolution of Voot and JioCinema
Voot, originally launched by Viacom18 in 2014, swiftly gained popularity as a versatile OTT platform offering a wide array of content. The introduction of Voot Select, the platform’s premium service, further solidified Viacom18’s foothold in the ever-expanding streaming industry. In parallel, JioCinema made its entrance under Reliance Industries’ telecommunications arm, Jio, and later became an integral part of the Viacom18 umbrella in 2022.
Subscriber Onboarding
One critical aspect of this transition is the seamless onboarding process offered to Voot Select’s loyal subscribers onto the JioCinema platform. This thoughtful approach ensures that existing subscribers can continue to enjoy their favourite content without disruptions while also gaining access to the enhanced offerings and features available on JioCinema.
The Remaining Transition
While the majority of subscribers have already embraced the new platform, approximately 10% of Voot Select’s user base is yet to transition to JioCinema. Nevertheless, Viacom18 executives express confidence that this remaining segment will likely migrate within the next couple of months. This anticipation underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a smooth and gradual transition for all its subscribers.
In conclusion, Viacom18’s bold move to consolidate its OTT platforms represents a significant development in India’s media landscape. As the merger continues to unfold, it promises to redefine how viewers access and engage with digital content, solidifying Viacom18’s position as a major player in the nation’s entertainment ecosystem.
