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The latest stories published on The Desk.

European streamers start to embrace ads on Netflix
TV and film fans in Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain and other countries are watching more Netflix content on its ad-supported tier.

USAGM finalizes firings at Voice of America
More than 630 workers were let go between the start of the month and Friday, when the final termination notices were sent.

Fox acquires streaming service Caliente TV, will launch new pay TV channel
Fox Corporation has acquired sports-centric streaming service Caliente TV, a streaming service that offers live athletic events in Mexico and Latin America.

XR: Most TV ads lack accessibility features like captions
The shortcoming means viewers with disabilities aren't engaging with brand messaging on TV.

Ampere: Amazon begins to increase ad load on Prime Video
Between April and June 2025, the volume of ads per hour on Amazon Prime Video increased by 53 percent, according to data released by Ampere on Thursday.

FCC seeks public comment on TV, radio ownership reform
The agency will issue a public notice that seeks comment on modifying or eliminate certain broadcast ownership restrictions.

Verizon to close streaming marketplace Plus Play
Verizon is pulling the plug on its streaming marketplace that allowed wireless and home Internet customers to sign up for third-party subscriptions.

DirecTV to add MeTV Toons to satellite, streaming TV services
DirecTV is in the process of bringing Weigel Broadcasting's retro cartoon channel MeTV Toons to its satellite and streaming platforms.

Disney launching shoppable “storefronts” on streaming services
Disney is launching virtual storefronts that will allow streamers to purchase goods and services when they watch content on Disney Plus, ESPN Plus and Hulu.

Tubi partners with YouTube creators on new digital shows
Tubi is expanding its streaming library by licensing content from popular YouTube creators, further integrating digital talent into its free, ad-supported platform.

Court hits DVD pirates with $7.5 million judgment
A court in Washington has imposed a $7.5 million judgment against nearly two dozen defendants who sold counterfeit movies on Amazon.

Fox promotes Glenn Berk, Mim Davey to new local TV GM roles
Fox Television Stations has promoted a pair of its local TV executives to new general manager roles in the Midwest.