CNN’s streaming service has been a long time in the making and now it’s finally here. Called CNN+, it aims to get subscribers hooked on the news like it’s entertainment. Cause, in a way, it is — according to Freakonomics.
So, like we already don’t have enough such (entertaining?) options, we need another one? Sure, you may want to keep up with what’s going on in Ukraine from minute to minute, but hopefully, we will soon be heading to more peaceful times. At that time, do we really need CNN+?
Sure, at some point CNN will try to make drama about every tiny thing that is happening throughout the world. Some of that will be entertaining no doubt about it, but some other things, well — we would argue that the likes of Netflix, Disney+ and HBO Max offer much better content.
Alas, we don’t want to be the judge here. If you’re into keeping up with every step CNN reporters make, you’ll love CNN+.
On its part, they are pretty much forced to make this move as it can help them address the decline in traditional cable TV amid the growth of streaming. In that sense, the service will complement the existing programs on TV and CNN Digital — featuring daily newscasts for viewers to watch live or on-demand, documentaries, specials, and even exclusive access to the CNN original series “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.”
Also, there is the so-called “Interview Club” that lets subscribers submit questions before and during an interview to help facilitate conversations with guests and experts around a particular news topic. A Club Manager will be there to mediate submissions, with other members being able to vote on their favorite questions from others.
All being said, we have to ask whether this proposition is worth $5.99 per month? Because it adds to an existing cost for other streaming services, or just one.
Since WarnerMedia owns both CNN and HBO, perhaps we see some kind of a bundle offering, like Disney has for its slate of streaming services (Disney+, Hulu and ESPN). Or perhaps not.
At the moment, CNN+ is available in the U.S. only and will work across platforms and devices, with even more platforms getting supported soon (like Roku). Right now, there is a special offer that lets you receive a 50% discount on your monthly plan for the lifetime of their subscription. That offer ends on April 26.
For those who want to access CNN+ outside of the US, there’s an app for that — and it’s called a VPN. Check out the best options for streaming from here.