Facebook Launches 'Watch,' A New Video Streaming Service

Image Source: The Verge

Facebook is looking to stamp an authority in the video streaming business by launching its own TV platform 'Watch,' pitching it against online video services like YouTube and Netflix.

In the coming weeks, users will see a new 'Watch' tab that which will offer a a range of shows, some of which have been funded by Facebook itself.

Now, since Facebook, as a whole is a global community where friends can share moments together, Watch, in a way will be personalied so that users can discover new shows, based on what their friends are watching. How cool is that?

Also, You as a viewer will be able to see comments and connect with friends and dedicated groups for shows.

Mark Zuckerberg, the company’s founder,  in a Facebook post said that:

“Watching a show doesn’t have to be passive,”  

“It can be a chance to share an experience and bring people together who care about the same things.”

'Watch' is a remake of 'Facebook Video', which has been available for some time now. But, until now, 'Video' has mostly been dominated by amateur clips or short segments from news organisations.

The world’s largest social network added a video tab last year, and has hinted for some time that it might make the move to producing original content.

Watch could open up new revenue potential for both Facebook and programme makers, while users can expect to see targeted advertising before and during the shows.

THE COMPETITION

It is worthy to note that Facebook is diving into an already crowded and increasingly complex market, and will face major competition from the likes of YouTube and Netflix.

Also, Disney has announced that it will be ending its current deal will Netflix by 2019, to start its own direct-to-consumer streaming-video services. One of which will include a sports-themed ESPN streaming service by next year.

Facebook already has content lined up, including Major League Baseball, Women’s basketball, parenting shows and a safari show from National Geographic. It has also inked deals with millennial-oriented media groups Vox Media, BuzzFeed, ATTN, Group Nine Media and others to produce shows.

'Watch' will have a limited release in the US before it is rolled out more broadly.

Do you think Facebook Watch will be another great platform to share moment with friends and loved ones?! let us know in the comment

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