Pluto.TV Turns Web Videos Into Curated Television Channels
Rather than relying on a computer algorithm, the startup has employed 15 curators to program its TV-like channels. The company expects live streaming will prompt user engagement.
*Pluto.TV channel 114: “Happy” All Day Long
Pluto.TV is a free online entertainment platform arranged in a similar way to television with nearly 100 channels, cross-device capabilities and shared signals that let multiple users watch the same thing at the same time. Features include popular content, easy access, intuitive channel guides, personalization, DVR and social features.
Rather than relying on a computer algorithm, the startup has employed 15 curators to program its channels. The company’s CEO Nick Grouf told Variety that 100 users of the site’s prelaunch version have spent about one hour per visit watching video, which Grouf believes is indicative of Pluto.TV’s ability to drive engagement.
According to Nielsen data, live TV makes up more than 90 percent of time spent viewing video today. Grouf believes Pluto.TV’s live-stream feature will prompt users to engage in social features like live chat to talk with friends as they watch together.
The channel guide is easy to navigate and is broken down into categories including Next Tech, Gaming, Stand-Up Comedy, Trending Now, Top Viral Videos, Top 40, Food, Travel, Mind & Body, Commercials 24/7, News, Sports and Education. And of course, no online entertainment platform would be complete without a dedicated Cat channel.
“Pluto.TV is revolutionizing the way people enjoy video content online,” said Grouf in a press release. “We’re making the process of discovering new content easy by delivering free programming around areas of interest anytime, anywhere. Pluto.TV has done the heavy lifting for you, so you can sit back, watch and enjoy.”
COO of Funny or Die Mitch Galbraith believes Pluto.TV’s easy user interface will attract a broader audience. “It’s a natural fit for our brand — offering a one-stop shop for Funny or Die video content to keep people laughing.”
Pluto.TV’s investors include CEO of United Talent Agency Jeremy Zimmer and Windsor Media. To view the multimedia assets associated with the company’s press release, click here.
