CNN aims to focus on news over cable as it launches a new subscription streaming tier with more features for viewers who want news first and a connection to traditional TV second.
Indeed, the company’s new “all access” streaming outlet will air traditional cable programming, which means nearly every live time slot on the linear grid from 5 a.m. to midnight, with a few exceptions. But its main goal is to draw viewers into CNN’s slot who are interested in the latest news on trending topics, not necessarily the time slot or talent.
“All Access” offers a collection of recent videos that may help subscribers learn about everything from recent sports betting scandals involving NBA players and coaches to the government shutdown. It features special live streams dedicated to giving viewers an immediate look at what’s happening at that moment. Its subscribers will also have access to CNN’s movie library and documentary programming. The product will also be available to traditional pay-TV subscribers and addresses CNN and parent company Warner Bros. Discovery’s need to maintain relationships with cable and satellite providers as more consumers move to streaming video.
“We’re delivering CNN’s industry-leading journalism all in one place and making it accessible on any device,” said Alex McCallum, CNN’s executive vice president of digital products and services. “Whether you’re a fan of the live premium video storytelling that made CNN famous, or prefer easy content that catches the day’s most important news and lifestyle stories, viewers will have access to a wide range of world-class storytelling from CNN and its trusted journalists. But it’s perfect for viewers.”
CNN needs to appeal to an audience that no longer sees cable as an integral part of their media diet. CNN is projected to shed 7.6% of its pay-TV subscriber base by the end of 2026, according to estimates from Kagan, the market research division of S&P Global Intelligence. CNN’s viewership is estimated to be 67.1 million in 2024, but is expected to remain at 62 million by the end of next year, Kagan said.
CNN is asking $6.99 per month, or $69.99 per year, for the new content tier. This is the company’s second attempt at building a subscription-based streaming outlet.
Unlike its previous effort, CNN+, which launched in 2022 and ended within a few weeks, the new “All Access” relies heavily on the video and reporting that CNN produces daily, rather than introducing a series of new programs led by anchors or a diverse cast of contributors. CNN’s reporters, producers, and correspondents work all over the world, but they may not get more than a few minutes on traditional television. “All Access” will not be solely focused on the linear network’s politics and breaking news reporting, but will rely heavily on videos already produced to generate additional revenue.
But CNN is launching the product again at a time of great uncertainty for its parent company. CNN+ debuted in 2022 when the former Discovery Communications was working to acquire the former Warner Media from its owner, AT&T. The new CNN streaming debut comes as Warner Bros. Discovery, which has been in the process of separating its traditional television assets and its streaming and studio businesses, essentially said it would consider acquisition offers for the company or various parts of its portfolio.
Subscribers will have access to several channels beyond CNN’s linear U.S. feed. CNN’s international feed is also available, along with two FAST channels. One is dedicated to breaking news headlines, similar to the old linear cable station CNN Headline News, and the other is related to CNN’s original documentary series and programming.
CNN plans to add new programming from current staff. Anderson Cooper hosts “All There Is Live,” a streaming extension of his grief-focused podcast. Cooper will speak with guests about their experiences with grief and loss, and will be available for interactive live chats. The show will stream independently and episodes will be available the next day via All Access. Donnie O’Sullivan joins others on a spiritual journey to find a new source of meaning for ‘Devoted’. Harry Enten statistically analyzes news articles in “The Enten Factor.” “5 Things With Kate Bolduan,” one of the programs launched on CNN+ that provides a quick look at the top stories of the news cycle, is now available on All Access.
