Viacom and Sony make “landmark” agreement for cloud-based TV

Viacom and Sony have announced what is being described as a “landmark” agreement for Sony’s forthcoming cloud-based TV service to carry 22 Viacom networks at launch.

The deal marks Viacom’s first ever agreement to provide its networks for an internet-based live TV and video on-demand service and will see Sony carry linear networks including Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, BET and CMT.

Viacom currently owns and operates the largest basic cable portfolio in the US by audience share – including 25.9% share of basic cable viewership among young people aged 2 to 34 – while there are approximately 75 million internet-enabled Sony devices in US living rooms.

“Our new cloud-based TV service will combine the live TV content people love most about cable with the dynamic experience they have come to expect from our network,” said Andrew House, group executive, network entertainment business, Sony Corporation.

“Viacom’s award-winning networks are a perfect match for our new service, ensuring that our customers will be able to access the shows they love on their favourite devices, when and how they choose.”

More details about Sony’s cloud-based TV will be announced in due course.