go90, Verizon’s curated, ad-supported OTT service for millennials, started off as a mobile app when it launched last fall, but has begun to extend a bridge to the TV.
Verizon confirmed that the latest version of go90, version 2.0, for iOS and Android mobile devices supports video casting to Apple TV boxes as well as the Google Chromecast streaming adapters.
It marks the first time go90 content has been optimized for the big screen. Watchable, Comcast’s similar, ad-supported OTT service, is offered on mobile apps to all-comers and on X1 boxes for its pay TV subscribers.
go90 is also removing some friction with version 2.0, as the app no longer requires users to register in order to watch videos, which can now be viewed via curated “networks” such as Action, Comedy, Drama, and Reality. However, registration is required to use other features such as commenting on content or setting favorites. Additionally, go90 now lets registered users comment on videos while viewing, and has added a simplified way for users to share clips or full episodes from shows and live events via email, text, Facebook or Twitter.
The new app, launched on June 20, introduces “a few new design and navigation enhancements… to help users discover, watch and share content even easier,” the company said, noting that the updates will begin to roll out widely on the platform over the next few days.
The new app could help to drive more usage of go90. Verizon has not announced usage figures for it, but CEO Lowell McAdam acknowledged in May that go90 “did get a little over-hyped,” but added that the company remains bullish about go90’s longer-term prospects.
“[It’s] one of those things you have to work into, and we’re on pace,” he said at the time. “So, bottom line is Go90 is in a good spot from our perspective we’re going to continue to pursue it, but our expectations are realistic.”
