Paramount and Vizio are launching a dedicated pop-up channel for Paramount Plus through the free, ad-supported streaming service Vizio WatchFree Plus (stylized as WatchFree+), the companies announced on Thursday.
The channel will leverage Vizio’s Content Connection tool that allows streamers to seamlessly transition from WatchFree Plus to Paramount Plus while they are watching content through the pop-up channel, which will include episodes of “Tulsa King,” “Frasier,” “Dexter” and “Special Ops: Lioness,” among others.
“This is a perfect example of how content owners can combat TV fragmentation and create a seamless viewing experience across streaming environments,” said Sean Booker, the Head of Media & Entertainment and National Advertising Sales at Vizio. “And when you pair this FAST-focused experience with the Smart TV Home Screen, Vizio is uniquely positioned to reach viewers before they start splitting off into streaming environments.
In addition to promoting the channel through WatchFree Plus, Vizio will promote the Paramount Plus pop-up channel through the Vizio home screen, which is the first touchpoint for users of its smart TVs.
Paramount Plus costs $8 per month or $60 per year for the “Paramount Plus Essentials” plan, which includes content from CBS, MTV, VH1, Comedy Central and BET supported by short commercial breaks, along with a handful of content streams that play shows and movies around-the-clock. Paramount Plus with Showtime costs $13 per month or $120 per year, and includes content from Showtime, ad-free streaming and access to a user’s local CBS station or affiliate.
