Connectivity Chronicles #20241101

Media Spotlight: Peacock Adds Multiview for Election Night

Peacock is expanding its Multiview feature to cover the 2024 U.S. Election Night, marking the first time this technology will be used outside of sports content. This feature, which gained popularity during the 2024 Paris Olympics, will provide a curated three-view experience that includes breaking news, data analysis, and real-time results. Viewers can switch between live streams, such as NBC News Now for breaking news, the Kornacki Cam for detailed analysis from Steve Kornacki, and a feed showing election results and the balance of power map. The Multiview experience will be available on various devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, web browsers, and tablets, starting at 6 p.m. ET on November 5 until 2 a.m. ET on November 6. Users can access all election-related content through Peacock’s Election Hub, available from November 1 to 7. This initiative aims to enhance live streaming by leveraging NBC News’ expertise and Peacock’s technology, allowing viewers to navigate between different streams, switch audio, and dive deeper into the coverage, emphasizing Peacock’s commitment to comprehensive and user-friendly event coverage.

Telecom Insights: AT&T Expands Fiber Footprint

Corning has secured a multi-year agreement with AT&T to supply various optical networking solutions, including the Evolv FlexNAP cable, which features a compact connector ideal for space-constrained deployments. Importantly, these products are manufactured in the U.S., aligning with the "Build America, Buy America" provisions of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, potentially qualifying for a share of the $42.5 billion in subsidies. AT&T aims to extend its fiber footprint to over 30 million locations by the end of 2025, capitalizing on strong demand and growing broadband revenue. As fiber adoption accelerates, it could contribute $326 billion to U.S. GDP and significantly boost rural economic growth.

Media Trend: Hayu Hosts London FanFest

Hayu, NBCUniversal’s all-reality streaming service, hosted its first FanFest in London, offering fans an immersive experience with their favorite reality TV stars. The event featured meet-and-greets, live panels, and on-stage interviews with personalities like Andy Cohen, Lisa Barlow, and Sutton Stracke. A highlight was the announcement of Hayu’s first original series commission, “The Real Housewives of London,” premiering in late 2025. The FanFest provided unprecedented access to reality TV royalty, including stars from “The Real Housewives” franchises and “Below Deck.” Fans enjoyed exclusive interactions and behind-the-scenes insights, making it a memorable experience. For those unable to attend, recordings of panels and interviews were made available on the platform, marking a milestone as Hayu expands content and audience engagement.

Telecom Insights: AT&T Eyes Open-Access Future

AT&T CEO John Stankey predicts significant "structural changes" in the telecom industry, particularly with the rise of open-access networks. During the Q3 2024 earnings call, he emphasized the potential impact of these networks on AT&T's future. The company is expanding its Gigapower joint venture with BlackRock, focusing on developing partnerships and expertise in open-access broadband. Stankey mentioned the possibility of exploring opportunities outside AT&T's traditional markets. He also noted that Gigapower is performing well, which is comparable to AT&T’s existing fiber offerings. Additionally, he hinted at a future where AT&T might consider wholesaling its fiber network.

Market Shift: Samsung TV Plus Hits 88M Users

Samsung TV Plus has reached a milestone of 88 million monthly active users, driven primarily by its core U.S. user base of Gen Zers, Millennials, and Gen Xers. The free, ad-supported streaming service has seen a 50% year-over-year increase in global viewership, bolstered by recent launches in Singapore and the Philippines, with an upcoming launch in Thailand. Samsung TV Plus offers over 3,000 channels and tens of thousands of on-demand options, making it a popular choice among viewers seeking free premium content. The service’s rapid expansion is attributed to its ability to provide a superior user experience with high-quality content that resonates with consumers. Samsung TV Plus has become a key pillar in the distribution strategies of many established media companies, sports leagues, independent studios, and creators.

Telecom Regulatory Insights: FCC Probes Telecom Support Practices

The FCC has launched a Notice of Inquiry to assess customer support practices of telecom and broadband providers, particularly regarding subscription cancellations. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the need for transparent and accessible customer service, urging companies to simplify cancellation processes. This initiative follows a similar FTC rule mandating easier cancellation mechanisms for recurring charges, which the telecom industry is likely to resist due to potential increased costs. The FCC aims to enhance oversight of broadband providers and promote consumer protection, as it has done with recent regulations like broadband nutrition labels.

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