The news: Netflix is continuing to branch out into other video categories following its tough Q1 earnings report. The streaming service is now in the ‘initial stages’ of launching livestreams for standup comedy specials and unscripted shows, per Deadline.
More on this: Like some other recently announced Netflix features, livestreaming on the platform is still a distant reality. And though it will initially be used to augment existing content on the platform, it opens up a wide range of possibilities for the streamer down the line.
- Live video can add interactivity to Netflix’s suite of popular unscripted reality shows by allowing audience interaction. Audience members can vote on contestants in shows like the upcoming “Dance 100” competition—something Disney+ is also looking to do now that it’s moved “Dancing With The Stars” exclusively to its streaming platform.
- The new feature also opens the door to sports broadcasting. Sports content is having a moment on Netflix: The platform’s Formula One documentary series “Drive to Survive” is frequently cited as contributing to the sport’s newfound popularity in the US, and cycling documentary “Icarus” (2017) won the Academy Award for best documentary.
- Livestreaming features have been a great success for video platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and more, creating opportunities for social commerce and boosting watch time—an area in which Netflix is already ahead. A recent Nielsen report found Netflix led daily watch time across streaming and TV at 1.13 trillion minutes.