Prepare your hearts and your wallet because NBCUniversals streaming service Peacock will be available for free!
Investors gathered at world-renowned 30 Rock today as the company revealed new details on its previously announced streaming service. Unlike their competitors such as Netflix and new kid on the block Disney +, Peacock will offer a three-tiered price option that includes ad-based subscriptions to help keep costs low.
According to The Verge, NBCUniversal Chairman Steve Burke stated, We have one of the most enviable collections of media brands and the strongest ad sales track record in the business. Capitalizing on these key strengths, we are taking a unique approach to streaming that brings value to customers, advertisers and shareholders.
So heres the breakdown:
The lowest-priced subscription (reported by CNBC as named Peacock Free) is free, ad-based access to 7,500 hours of programming available on the service.
The next level, Peacock Premium, offers access to not only 15,000 hours of content but also live news and sporting events- which none of its rivals currently offer. It will even include non-televised Premier League soccer games and the biennial Ryder Cup, CNBC also reports. Peacock Premium will set you back $4.99 per month or $9.99 monthly if you dont want the ads. Comcast and Cox customers, however, can enjoy free ad-based subscriptions to Peacock Premium and just pay the $5 difference if theyd prefer to go ad free.
The company also announced several new original series, including one produced by Tina Fey and a stand-up comedy special starring Kevin Hart, produced by Harts Laugh Out Loud Network. According to CNBC, NBCUniversal has acquired a stake in the comedians network, which will also produce more Hart-related content.
Peacock Free and Peacock Premium will launch in the US on July 15, 2020. Comcast Xfinity X1 and flex customers will have early access, launching on April 15th.
For a curated list of what shows and films will be available on the streamer, check out this nifty list from People. And for my fellow fans of The Office, People also reports that the series will be available for five years starting January 2021. Let the countdown begin!
