Bolstering its TV Everywhere affililiate and content roster, Univision is making fare from its suite of networks available to Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks digital subscribers.
The cable operators’ authenticated video customers today can begin accessing Univision content via UVideos, Univision’s bilingual digital video network on iOS and Android devices at no additional cost. The launch emanates from a broad renewal pact the parties inked back in October.
Available via UVideos.com and the UVideos mobile app, the MSOs' customers can now watch a robust array of the programmer's shows, including telenovelas, news, sports, specials, and popular Televisa programming, in Spanish or subtitled in English, from flagship service Univision, broadcaster UniMas and cable networks Galavision and Univision Deportes, as well as novella service tlNovelas and news channel FOROtv.
For the most part, the content is available on a day-after basis, with some fare accessible within hours of its linear premiere. "We want to get the content out there as quickly as possible," said Sarah Madigan, executive vice president of content distribution at Univision, in an interview.
With the Time Warner Cable and Bright House rollouts, Univision has augmented its UVideos’ affiliate roster that also includes authenticated video customers of AT&T U-verse, Cox Communications, Dish Network and Cablevision’s Optimum.
For its part, the addition of Uvideos continues the build-out of Time Warner Cable’s burgeoning TVE platform.
“The power of the Univision brand is significant and its programming resonates with our customers,” said Mike Angus, senior vice president and general manager of video for Time Warner Cable. “Our commitment is to make as much content as possible to our customers whenever and on whatever devices they want to enjoy it on. UVideos will allow our subscribers to take a deep dive with Univision.”
UVideos.com and the UVideos mobile app include a time-syncing feature where viewers are able to see all the social and on-site comments played back to them as they occurred during original broadcast. As such, friends and family can experience the programming together, even if they’re not watching at the same time. The app also encompasses search and recommendation functionality so users can find the most relevant content for them, across the different programming genres.
“The integration of the social features that are part of the service’s DNA is a very important component,” said Madigan. “It’s a great way for lots of viewers to connect with their friends and families no matter when they watch the programming.”
While Univision’s TVE gaze to date has focused on on-demand capabilities, Madigan said simulcasting is something that could be part of the mix down the road.
In the meantime, both Univision and Time Warner Cable will deploy various marketing initiatives and tools to let subscribers know about UVideos and its availability.
Madigan said Univision has included an FAQ section on its website to explain the particulars and has armed its telephone receptionists with information on the service. Additionally, the programmer will run promos and also alert viewers via on-air snipes.
For its part, Time Warner Cable is flagging the service on its website, where it is also providing information about the verification process. “We want to reduce the friction of authentication as much as possible,” said Angus, as Time Warner Cable looks to fortify its TVE portfolio.
Univision launched UVideos in October of 2012 with some 1,500 hours of programming and a number of shorter video clips.
