According to the report, RIL believes that running two separate platforms would be more expensive and less efficient. By merging the two, RIL can create a powerful streaming service that can compete with big players like Google’s YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
If we look at the statistics, Disney + Hotstar is currently one of the top streaming services in India. It has more than 500 million downloads on Google Play Store. At the same time, JioCinema of Viacom18 (controlled by RIL) has more than 100 million downloads. If both merge, a big OTT platform will be created.
According to the report, this development comes after the deal struck earlier this year to merge Star India and Viacom18. The media company that will be formed from the new deal will have more than 100 TV channels and two streaming services. However, it seems that Reliance wants to have only one OTT platform.
However, this merger is still awaiting approval from regulators like Competition Commission of India and National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). According to Reliance’s annual report, Jio Cinema had an average of 225 million users every month last year. At the same time, in the last quarter of 2023, Disney + Hotstar had 333 million active users.
Disney+ Hotstar subscribers are decreasing
The report also states that Disney+ Hotstar’s paid subscribers have decreased due to the loss of IPL and HBO content.
