STREAMING SERVICES INDUSTRY UPDATE: MAY 2025

The streaming landscape continues to evolve rapidly with several major developments occurring in the past 48 hours. Disney is preparing to launch its standalone ESPN streaming service ahead of the NFL season, targeting "cord nevers" rather than traditional cable converts[1]. To boost adoption, Disney is offering a promotional bundle that includes the Disney Plus ecosystem at the standard $29.99 price point for up to one year[1].

Fox is also entering the direct-to-consumer sports streaming market with its new service, which will include NFL Sunday games and content from Fox Business and Fox News[1]. This development comes after the collapse of the previously announced "Venue Sports" partnership between Fox, Disney, and Warner Brothers Discovery[1].

Netflix continues to dominate the advertising space, announcing at their third Upfront presentation that their ad-supported tier now reaches over 94 million global viewers[4]. The streaming giant is developing new first-party measurement solutions and AI-powered creative ad formats that will be available in all ad-supported countries by 2026[4].

On the content front, Hulu is banking on reality TV and psychological dramas this month with new seasons of "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" and Nicole Kidman's "Nine Perfect Strangers"[5]. Meanwhile, Prime Video is competing with Netflix in the drama space, with both platforms releasing similar estranged sisters dramas – Prime's "The Better Sister" starring Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks[5].

Industry analysts are closely watching these developments as the streaming wars intensify, with services competing not just on content but also on technological innovation, pricing strategies, and advertising capabilities. The push toward sports streaming rights particularly highlights how streaming platforms are aggressively targeting the last remaining stronghold of traditional television.

The global streaming services industry is experiencing another phase of rapid transformation in May 2025. The sector’s value is set to hit 108.73 billion dollars this year, with analysts predicting an average annual growth rate of 8.6 percent through 2032. Notably, North America continues to lead with 50.66 billion dollars in revenues for 2025, but Asia Pacific is closing in fast, expected to represent about two-fifths of all streaming market revenue this year, driven by surging demand in India and China and the widespread adoption of smart devices and OTT platforms.

In the past 48 hours, Roku announced the acquisition of Frndly TV, signaling a push to capture more of the family-friendly and budget streaming market. This move aligns with a broader trend of consolidation, as established players seek to broaden their offerings and capture niche audiences. Netflix remains the revenue leader with a 2025 profit of 10.4 billion dollars, followed by Disney, which now controls Hulu and Disney Plus and is maximizing cross-platform synergy and global reach.

Meanwhile, industry competition is intensifying. New content launches across major platforms like Max, Hulu, and Disney Plus are aimed at maintaining subscriber interest as consumers grow more selective about where they spend their money. As streaming prices edge up, consumers are increasingly rotating subscriptions month to month or bundling services – a behavior shift that has forced platforms to rethink loyalty strategies and content release pacing.

Emerging competitors such as Wingding Media are entering with innovative business models, while legacy players like Paramount are restructuring, as seen in its anticipated merger with Skydance. E-learning is another booming vertical within streaming, now representing over a third of global streaming revenues in 2025.

There have been no major regulatory shocks or supply chain disruptions reported this week. However, platforms are continuing to invest in AI and cloud-based delivery to control costs and personalize offerings.

Compared to last year, the trend toward consolidation and market concentration has picked up pace, while consumer churn and pricing sensitivity remain top challenges. Market leaders are responding with more targeted acquisitions, aggressive bundling, and a relentless focus on profitability.

In the last 48 hours, the streaming services industry has seen both stability and adaptation amid ongoing transformation. Global streaming revenue remains strong, projected to hit $138.45 billion this year, with forecasts pushing that number to over $202 billion by 2030. The market is led by giants like Netflix, which reported a profit of $10.4 billion on $33.7 billion in revenue, affirming its dominance and successful push for profitability. Disney, operating Disney Plus and Hulu, continues to build on its expansive content strategy, while Amazon Prime Video maintains a significant share through ongoing original releases and bundled media offerings.

Recent weeks saw Paramount making headlines as it navigates strategic pivots and potential mergers, notably the high-profile talks with Skydance, which could further reshape the competitive landscape if finalized. Meanwhile, emerging players like Wingding Media are gaining traction, indicating that while consolidation continues among legacy media, fresh competitors are finding space, often focusing on niche or international markets.

Consumer behavior remains sensitive to pricing and variety. Many users now prioritize value, frequently rotating subscriptions based on content releases. Industry reports highlight a continued increase in cord-cutting, with more households abandoning traditional cable in favor of direct-to-consumer streaming platforms. Supply chain and infrastructure improvements, such as higher global internet speeds especially in North America and parts of Asia, are enabling higher quality streaming experiences and supporting consumer demand for 4K and live content.

On the regulatory front, there have been no major disruptive changes in the past week, but ongoing scrutiny around consumer data privacy and international market access remains a topic for major platforms. Price adjustments and bundling strategies continue to roll out, as services experiment with ad-supported tiers to capture price-sensitive viewers.

Compared to last quarter, competition remains fierce, but the industry has shifted to emphasize profitability over pure subscriber growth. Leaders like Netflix and Disney have responded to these challenges by tightening content spending, leveraging data for targeted releases, and exploring global markets for expansion. This balanced approach has helped maintain industry momentum even as consumers become more selective and competition intensifies.

Streaming Industry Analysis: May 2025

The streaming industry continues to expand rapidly, with the global market projected to reach $108.73 billion in 2025, growing at an 8.6% CAGR and expected to hit $193.84 billion by 2032[2]. This growth is evident in Nielsen's latest report, which revealed streaming has achieved record high viewership for the third consecutive month in April 2025[4].

North America dominates the market with anticipated revenues of $50.66 billion this year, largely due to high smart device adoption and strong OTT platform usage[2]. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific, led by India and China, is emerging as a major growth region, expected to capture approximately 40% of global market revenue in 2025[2].

Recent industry developments include Roku's acquisition of Frndly TV, announced earlier this month, which will expand Roku's content offerings and strengthen its market position[2]. The software segment is set to account for over half of the global streaming market share, while satellite TV is projected to generate approximately $48.49 billion in revenue this year[2].

The landscape remains competitive with Netflix maintaining its dominant position, having generated $33.7 billion in revenue with $10.4 billion in profit, demonstrating its successful focus on profitability[5]. Disney continues to leverage its multi-platform strategy across Disney+, Hulu, and other services[5].

Consumer viewing habits continue to evolve, with e-learning emerging as a significant vertical, likely to represent more than one-third of streaming market revenue[2]. The industry's growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for on-demand content, higher internet penetration, and widespread mobile device adoption.

As we move further into May, multiple platforms have refreshed their content libraries, with new releases across Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and other services attracting viewers with fresh programming options[1][3].

In the past 48 hours, the global streaming services industry continues a pattern of robust growth and intense competition. Streaming’s share of total TV viewing hit a record high in April, marking the third consecutive month of gains according to Nielsen. This momentum is being driven by the ongoing consumer shift away from traditional TV to flexible, on-demand streaming options, boosted by multiplatform strategies that make content accessible across devices and services.

Recent market data highlights that global media streaming revenue is projected to reach approximately 108.73 billion dollars in 2025, with North America leading the sector, set to generate over 50 billion dollars of that amount. Asia Pacific is rapidly gaining ground as well, especially in India and China, expected to account for nearly two-fifths of global market share this year. The software segment now represents more than half of streaming market value, as innovations in AI and recommendation algorithms continue to shape the user experience[3].

One of the weeks most notable deals saw Roku announce the acquisition of Frndly TV, a move to strengthen Roku’s content portfolio with affordable, family-focused channels and maintain growth pace as competition heats up[3]. Partnerships and acquisitions like this reflect a broader industry trend towards consolidation and differentiation as companies try to balance content costs with subscriber growth.

Consumers are also showing increased price sensitivity. Several major platforms, including Netflix and Disney+, have made recent pricing adjustments, with some planning ad-supported tiers and others experimenting with bundled offerings to retain subscribers in a crowded market. E-learning has emerged as a significant vertical, now accounting for a third of global streaming revenue, reflecting diversification efforts by industry leaders[3].

Legacy media companies continue to reorganize amid these shifts, while new entrants attempt to carve out market niches. The Paramount-Skydance merger remains an industry focal point, highlighting the challenges traditional players face in adapting to digital-first realities.

Compared to earlier reporting this year, the industry now appears even more focused on multiplatform engagement and cost management. As cord-cutting accelerates and consumer expectations evolve, streaming leaders are responding with more targeted investments, strategic M and A activity, and product innovation to stay at the forefront of a rapidly transforming market[2][3].

The streaming services industry is undergoing notable shifts in the past 48 hours, with several significant developments underscoring the sector’s rapid evolution. The market continues to expand, with the global media streaming market projected to reach 108.73 billion dollars in 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 8.6 percent. North America remains the dominant region, boasting an estimated 50.66 billion dollars in revenue this year, fueled by high adoption of smart devices and over-the-top platforms. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific, led by India and China, is emerging as a critical market, expected to hold roughly two-fifths of the global revenue share this year.

Recent market movements highlight ongoing consolidation and partnership activity. Roku’s acquisition of Frndly TV was announced last week, strengthening Roku’s family and budget-friendly content offerings and expanding its user base. Bundling has gained traction as a key trend, with more consumers opting for bundled streaming packages to simplify subscriptions and save money. This shift is evident in increased adoption of streaming bundles introduced over the past year, as reported by industry analysts.

Consumer preferences are changing, as viewers seek both value and ease of use. There is a growing trend toward subscription consolidation, with bundled packages from major services like Netflix, Disney+, and others gaining momentum. This has led to increasing competitive pressure on smaller and niche platforms, forcing them to explore alliances or risk marginalization.

In terms of content and offerings, the software segment now accounts for more than half of the global market share, reflecting the importance of user experience and platform innovation. E-learning is also on the rise, projected to contribute over one-third of global streaming revenue in 2025, indicating diversification beyond traditional entertainment.

Streaming giants are responding to current challenges by emphasizing profitability and operational efficiency, with market leaders like Netflix reporting robust revenues and profits as a result of strategic pivots. Legacy media entities, including Paramount, continue to navigate restructuring and potential mergers to remain competitive.

Consumer behavior is also shaped by economic factors, leading to price sensitivity and greater scrutiny of subscription costs. There are no major new regulatory changes or supply chain disruptions reported within the last 48 hours, indicating overall industry stability compared to previous periods marked by regulatory debates and content licensing disputes. The competitive landscape remains dynamic as both emerging players and established giants adapt to shifting market demands.

The global streaming services industry has seen significant developments over the last 48 hours, reflecting its ongoing transformation and heightened competition. The market is on track to reach 108.73 billion dollars in 2025, growing at a compound annual rate of 8.6 percent driven by soaring demand for on-demand content and rapid adoption of smart devices[2]. Recent data highlights North America maintaining its leadership with projected revenues of 50.66 billion dollars this year, fueled by strong consumer uptake of OTT platforms and widespread use of AI-backed streaming solutions[2]. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific, led by India and China, is emerging as a key growth region, expected to contribute about two-fifths of global revenue by year-end[2].

Notably, deal-making and industry consolidation continue to reshape the landscape. Roku’s acquisition of Frndly TV, finalized last week, exemplifies leading platforms’ efforts to broaden their content libraries and attract cost-conscious viewers seeking bundled channel options[2]. At the same time, industry giants Netflix and Disney remain dominant, with Netflix reporting 33.7 billion dollars in revenue and 10.4 billion dollars in profit, a testament to its successful cost controls and profitable growth as competition heats up from new entrants and legacy brands[5]. Disney is pushing bundled offerings and international content while Paramount faces hurdles, prompting partnerships such as the recent Paramount-Skydance merger, a move to shore up financial stability and content volume[5].

On the product front, May 2025 has brought significant lineup changes. Services are both launching new exclusive shows and slashing less-watched content from their catalogs in an effort to reduce costs and improve margins[1][4]. Roku has released new streaming devices this month, while YouTube TV has expanded its multiview feature, signaling a focus on differentiated user experiences and live TV enhancements[4].

Regulatory and supply chain issues have not dominated headlines this week, but the trend toward no-contract streaming options is accelerating, with DIRECTV and others emphasizing flexibility to lure users wary of long-term commitments[4]. Consumers, meanwhile, are shifting behaviors—cutting traditional TV at a record pace, bundling streaming services, and seeking value as price sensitivity rises.

Compared to prior periods, the industry is showing signs of stabilization in terms of growth but faces mounting pressure to innovate, differentiate, and control costs. Industry leaders are streamlining offerings, investing in AI and personalization, and seeking partnerships to manage rising content expenses and evolving consumer demands[2][5].

Streaming Services Industry: Current State Analysis (May 16, 2025)

The streaming services industry continues to experience significant shifts as consumer behaviors evolve. According to the latest report from Edison Research released today, there's a notable rise in "streaming fatigue" with a steep drop in multi-service audio subscriptions as consumers face burnout from too many options. This trend is creating unexpected opportunities for traditional media, with AM/FM radio maintaining its audience share despite digital competition[1].

The financial outlook for the streaming market remains strong despite these challenges. Industry data released on May 11th indicates the global media streaming market is projected to reach USD 108.73 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.6%. Looking ahead, the market is expected to expand to USD 193.84 billion by 2032[3].

Consolidation continues to reshape the competitive landscape. Earlier this month, Roku Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire streaming service provider Frndly TV, signaling ongoing efforts by major platforms to expand their offerings through strategic acquisitions[3].

Content remains king in the battle for subscribers. Major platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and Tubi have all announced their new content lineups for May 2025[4]. Hulu's May roster features the second season of surprise hit "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" launching yesterday (May 15), along with Nicole Kidman's "Nine Perfect Strangers" returning for its sophomore season. The platform will also see one of its flagship shows, "The Handmaid's Tale," air its series finale on May 27[2].

As streaming platforms compete for consumer attention, the North American market continues to dominate with expected revenues of USD 50.66 billion in 2025, while the Asia Pacific region, led by India and China, is emerging as the next growth frontier, projected to capture approximately 40% of global market revenue this year[3].

Streaming Services Industry: Current State Analysis (May 13-15, 2025)

The streaming services industry continues to evolve rapidly with significant developments occurring in just the past 48 hours. Netflix has expanded its live TV offerings as announced yesterday, May 14, 2025, further blurring the line between traditional television and streaming platforms[1]. This strategic move comes as shoppable ads gain traction among streaming services, indicating a shift toward new revenue models.

CNN has revealed plans to launch a new streaming product this fall as part of an "All Access" offering[2]. The service will provide live channels, program replays, and on-demand content across CNN's digital ecosystem, though specific details about content and whether it will be truly standalone remain unclear.

Meanwhile, ESPN is preparing to launch its direct-to-consumer streaming service in autumn 2025, simply calling it "ESPN"[3]. This straightforward naming approach suggests the company is positioning its streaming service as a core part of its brand identity.

The market itself continues to expand impressively. According to Coherent Market Insights, the global media streaming market is projected to reach USD 108.73 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.6%[4]. Software components are expected to account for more than half of the market share, while North America is positioned to dominate with revenues worth USD 50.66 billion in 2025.

Industry consolidation continues with Roku's recent acquisition of Frndly TV announced earlier this month, expanding Roku's streaming service portfolio[4].

These developments are occurring against a backdrop of changing consumer habits. While specific streaming data for 2025 is still emerging, digital trends from early 2024 showed social media user identities reached 5.04 billion globally, with accelerating adoption rates[5]. This digital engagement growth suggests a continued shift toward online content consumption, potentially benefiting streaming platforms as traditional TV viewership declines.

STREAMING SERVICES INDUSTRY UPDATE: MAY 2025

The streaming industry has seen significant developments in the past 48 hours, with major players expanding their offerings and market value reaching new heights.

Netflix has just announced an expansion of its live TV lineup, continuing its strategic shift beyond on-demand content to capture more of the traditional television market[1]. This move comes as the global media streaming market is projected to hit USD 108.73 billion in 2025, growing at an 8.6% CAGR according to Coherent Market Insights[3].

CNN has revealed plans to launch a new streaming product this fall as part of an "All Access" offering. The service will provide live channels, programming replays, and video-on-demand content across CNN's digital ecosystem[2]. Alex MacCallum, CNN's EVP of digital products, stated this expansion "embodies the pioneering spirit" of the network.

In acquisition news, Roku has entered into an agreement to acquire streaming service provider Frndly TV earlier this month, strengthening its position in the competitive landscape[3].

Market analysis indicates North America will dominate the global streaming industry in 2025, accounting for approximately USD 50.66 billion in revenue. However, Asia Pacific, led by India and China, is rapidly becoming a prime target for streaming companies, expected to represent about 40% of global market share this year[3].

By component breakdown, software segments are projected to account for more than half of the global streaming market in 2025, while satellite TV is anticipated to generate revenue of about USD 48.49 billion[3].

These developments occur against a backdrop of changing consumer habits, with social media continuing to compete for audience attention. While streaming grows, traditional TV viewership has been declining, according to 2024 data from We Are Social[5].

As streaming platforms continue releasing new content for May 2025, competition for viewer attention remains fierce across Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Max and other services[4].