Too Many Video Streaming Choices May Drive Users Back To Piracy (techdirt.com)

Article summary

The rise of multiple video streaming services may lead to consumer frustration and potentially drive users back to piracy due to the increasing number of subscriptions and services required to access desired content. A survey by Deloitte found that nearly half of US consumers are frustrated with the growing number of subscriptions and services. The fragmentation of content across various streaming platforms may lead to a situation where consumers are forced to pay for multiple subscriptions, defeating the purpose of cutting the cord. This could result in a return to piracy as a means of accessing content.

Main themes

• streaming services
• piracy
• consumer frustration
• subscription fatigue
• content fragmentation

What commenters say

• The proliferation of streaming services with exclusive content is unsustainable and may lead to a consolidation of services.
• Consumers are frustrated with the growing number of subscriptions and services required to access desired content, and may turn to piracy as a result.
• A meta-service that manages multiple subscriptions and provides access to various streaming services could be a viable solution to the problem of fragmentation.
• The comparison between Disney and R. Kelly fans is unfair, as they are two different entities with different levels of influence and impact.
• The devotion of fans to certain brands or franchises can lead to a disregard for the misdeeds of the company or individual behind them.
• The rise of streaming services has changed the way people consume media, and traditional TV is no longer the primary source of entertainment.
• The cost of subscribing to multiple streaming services may not be worth it for consumers who only want to access a limited amount of content.
• The market demand for Disney's content, including Marvel and Star Wars, justifies the cost of subscribing to their streaming service.