Showtime confirms OTT service

CBS-owned US broadcaster Showtime is set to launch a stand-alone streaming service in an effort to reach new subscribers.

The US over-the-top service, called Showtime, will launch in early July to coincide with the new series of Ray Donovan (pictured) and Masters of Sex, which are both due to premiere on July 12.

Showtime will initially be available through Apple iOS devices and the Apple TV streaming box and will be priced at US$10.99 per month.

“Going over-the-top means Showtime will be much more accessible to tens of millions of potential new subscribers,” said CBS Corporation’s president and CEO, Leslie Moonves.

The CBS chief had first mooted the plan at a conference in November 2014, but distribution details have not been revealed until now.

“Across CBS we are constantly finding new ways to monetise our programming by capitalising on opportunities presented by technology,” said Moonves. “This works best when you have outstanding premium content – like we do at Showtime – and when you have a terrific partner like Apple – which continues to innovate and build upon its loyal customer base.”

Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of internet software and services said: “We’re excited to offer Apple customers Showtime’s live channels and extensive on demand library of great TV shows and movies, without a cable or satellite subscription.”

HBO launched its standalone OTT service, HBO Now, in the US in April via Apple devices and Cablevision’s Optimum Online service. Earlier this week, HBO said that it would roll the service out to Android devices this summer.