Tata Play Begins Removal of Sony Channels
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| Tata Play Begins Removal of Sony Channels |
Starting Thursday, Tata Play has begun removing Sony Pictures Network channels from its packages due to low viewership, promising reduced monthly charges for most customers. SPNI opposes the move, calling it arbitrary and a response to audit findings. Despite the controversy, SPNI assures viewers of continued access to their favorite content through other platforms. Read the complete article below for all the details.
August 1, 2024
In a strategic move, Tata Play, formerly known as Tata Sky, has initiated the removal of Sony Pictures Network India (SPNI) channels from its curated packs, effective Thursday. This decision aims to streamline its offerings by eliminating less-watched channels and adjusting monthly charges accordingly.
Reasons for Removal
Tata Play has justified this action by citing lower viewership for SPNI channels. Harit Nagpal, MD and CEO of Tata Play, explained, "We are streamlining channel packs by removing less-watched channels and adjusting monthly charges accordingly. Subscribers who wish to watch these channels can easily reinstate them by giving a missed call. We anticipate that at least 75 percent of customers whose packs have been modified will benefit from the reduced charges."
SPNI's Response
However, SPNI has strongly opposed this decision, describing it as "arbitrary" and "surprising." In a statement, SPNI claimed that Tata Play's narrative of "loss of viewership" is misleading. The broadcaster suggested that the removal is a retaliatory move due to SPNI exercising its audit rights on Tata Play's subscriber management system, which revealed significant discrepancies.
Commitment to Viewers
Despite the ongoing dispute, SPNI remains confident in retaining its loyal audience through other platforms nationwide. The broadcaster emphasized its commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment, ensuring viewers continue to enjoy their favorite shows and channels.
SPNI Channels and Reach
SPNI, under its consumer-facing identity Culver Max Entertainment, a subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation, Japan, boasts a diverse range of channels. These include Sony Entertainment Television, Sony MAX, Sony MAX 2, Sony PIX, Sony PIX HD, Sony BBC Earth, Sony BBC Earth HD, Sony AATH, and Sony YAY!, among others. The company reaches over 700 million viewers in India.
Tata Play's Market Position
Tata Play, with a 50 percent share owned by Tata Sons, reported a revenue of ₹4,304.62 crore in FY24 and serves nearly 10 million subscribers.
Conclusion
The removal of SPNI channels marks a significant shift in Tata Play's channel packaging strategy. While it may benefit a large portion of its subscriber base through reduced charges, the move has sparked controversy and pushback from SPNI, highlighting the complex dynamics of the DTH service market.