MUMBAI: Reliance group’s Viacom18’s streamer JioCinema is sprinting ahead at a rapid clip. The subscription-oriented OTT, according to Network18 Media’s filings with the Bombay stock exchange, doubled its subscriber base in Q2 FY 2025 quarter over quarter. The sub base at the end of 30 September 2024 stood at an impressive 16 million.
What worked in its favour, the company says, are the affordable monthly subscription plans of Rs 29 per month and Rs 89 per month (family plan) and an expanding content catalogue and the live sports that were streamed on it.
The third season of digital exclusive Bigg Boss OTT was the top driver of subscription and watch-time. Bigg Boss Marathi replicated its success on TV, becoming the third most-watched show on the platform. Network non-fiction shows like Laughter Chefs, Khatron Ke Khiladi, and Splitsvilla were complemented by digital exclusive shows like Shekhar Home and Pill.
The international content catalogue on JioCinema was amongst the top drivers of subscriber acquisition during the quarter. Kung Fu Panda 4, Dune 2, Godzilla x Kong, and Fall Guy were some of the popular international shows and movies added on the platform during the quarter.
Viacom18’s coverage of Paris Olympics 2024 delivered the highest ever viewership of the event with 170+ million viewers and 15 billion minutes of watch-time across JioCinema and Sports 18. JioCinema had up to 20 concurrent live streams spanning 17 dedicated feeds for sports and three curated streams for India matches and other high viewer interest events. A studio panel comprising eminent sports personalities and experts delivered surround content, bringing an unparalleled coverage of the event.
A combination of comprehensive coverage and a growing interest in non-cricket sports led to high engagement of over 50 mins a day on JioCinema. The sports network also aired India vs Bangladesh cricket test series, Indian Super League and other popular sports events, cementing its position as the home of sports.