Discovery launches ad-supported streaming service in Germany

Discovery Communications is teaming with ProSiebenSat.1 to launch an ad-supported video streaming service in Germany.

The service is combining original and premium content from terrestrial TV channels in Germany, including ProSieben, SAT.1, kabel eins, sixx, ProSieben MAXX, SAT.1 Gold and kabel eins Doku, along with Discovery’s free-to-air channels DMAX and TLC. The companies said more content will be added in the future.

The AVOD service is available on the existing ProSiebenSat.1 7TV brand digital platform and app. The project is set up to support additional content and joint venture partners.

“This is an exciting new way for millions of German TV fans to watch their favourite Discovery shows and is just the beginning of a dynamic new partnership,” said Michael Lang, president of International Development & Digital at Discovery, in a statement. “This announcement is just the start as we work to add more channels and content partners, greater functionality, and enhanced technological capabilities and commercial opportunities in the months ahead.”

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“This first phase of our streaming joint venture will see premium content from Discovery added for all 7TV fans. A new joint technology development for a pioneering streaming service is underway and we look forward to an exciting 2018, when we enter the next phase,” said Christian Dankl, CEO of AdVOD ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE, in a statement.

The companies are currently looking for a CEO to run the new venture, and they have tapped ProSiebenSat.1’s SevenOne Media to sell the digital ad inventory available.