This week, we learned about a new deal to bring Sony Pictures films to Netflix starting next year, T-Mobile launched its own home internet service, and HBO is celebrating a decade of Game of Thrones. Elsewhere, more Apple TV rumors have started swirling and Godzilla vs. Kong had a record-breaking premiere.
Here’s what happened in the world of cord cutting and streaming.
Breaking News
Here are some of the top streaming stories from the past week.
Warner Bros. Movies Will Return Exclusively to Theaters in 2022
While the landmark deal to bring Warner Bros. films to HBO Max on the same day as their theater premiere continues on, it looks like the movie studio will return its focus to theaters once 2022 arrives.
See what 2022 could have in store for Warner Bros. films here.
Netflix Will Have Exclusive Streaming Rights to New Sony Movies Next Year
Netflix and Sony Pictures have announced a deal that will bring the movie studio’s films to the streaming service starting in 2022. Netflix also gets first rights to Sony’s direct-to-streaming content.
Learn more about the deal between Netflix and Sony Pictures here.
YouTube Saw Significant Growth During the Pandemic With Video Streaming on the Rise
One video platform that saw big increases during the pandemic was YouTube. New survey data suggests a larger percentage of U.S. adults have turned to YouTube recently compared to 2019. Other social media platforms have seen similar gains during that timeframe.
See how YouTube and other platforms have fared during the pandemic here.
New tvOS Beta Code Mentions of 120Hz Refresh Rate Could Point to Next-Gen Apple TV
References to “120Hz” support in the latest version of Apple’s tvOS software could point to a next-gen Apple TV with improved specs. A high refresh rate of 120Hz, or 120 frames per second, could come to the platform via onboard HDMI 2.1, which improves bandwidth and would help future-proof any potential new streaming device featuring the new connection.
Learn more about the latest Apple TV rumors here.
‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ Made $285M+ at Global Box Offices Setting Pandemic Record
The monster mashup Godzilla vs. Kong raked in impressive numbers at the box office, considering COVID-19 continues to weigh heavily on the movie theater industry. The film cleared $200 million worldwide faster than any other film during the pandemic.
Read more about the film’s strong performance here.
HBO is Celebrating ‘Game of Thrones’ 10th Anniversary All Month Long
It’s been 10 years since the debut of Game of Thrones and HBO is hosting a month-long event to celebrate the landmark show. It’s called the Iron Anniversary and includes a full marathon, charity fundraisers and plenty of behind-the-scenes content.
Check out what HBO has planned for its Game of Thrones celebration here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
Netflix Lost More Than 30% Market Share to Competitors in 2020
Competition is certainly heating up in the streaming video industry. So much so that while Netflix continues to grow, its actual market share appears to be shrinking as more streaming options arise.
See how Netflix is faring against new competition here.
T-Mobile Launches Its Home Internet Service Nationwide
T-Mobile announced the launch of its 5G home internet service. The company is touting no contracts, no data caps, and average speeds of around 100 Mbps. Around 30 million homes are reportedly eligible for the service and you can check out more details in our full post.
Check out the details of T-Mobile’s new home internet service here.
Amazon Scores Chris Pratt Movie ‘Tomorrow War’
Amazon continues to pursue big movies to stream on its Prime Video service. After landing sequels like Borat Subsequent Moviefilm and Coming 2 America, the service has secured rights to Chris Pratt’s sci-fi film Tomorrow War.
Check out the details of Prime Video’s newest acquisition here.
Deal Alert
Save some cash with these current and upcoming deals.
T-Mobile Customers Can Save $10 on YouTube TV and Philo Starting This Week
With the demise of its TVision live TV streaming service imminent, T-Mobile has started offering deals on YouTube TV and Philo to current customers. You can score plans for either service at $10 off the regular monthly price.
Learn more about T-Mobile’s YouTube TV and Philo deal details and fine print here.
