When I first reviewed Sling TV, I wrote that the interface and concept were fantastic, but that its success would hinge on the quality and quantity of its content partnerships. ESPN, Turner, and Scripps were serviceable as an introduction, but each of these channels could be accessed easily by any millennial with a couple of their friends’ or friends’ parents cable information.
Well, since then, Sling has announced partnerships with AMC, BBC, IFC, Sundance TV, and WE tv; all channels that make cord-cutting more palatable.
Today, Sling has announced the addition of EPIX – giving customers access to more than 2,000 video on demand titles, plus linear channels with EPIX, EPIX2, EPIX3 and EPIX Drive-In. Note, EPIX will be available in an add-on package to the base $20 per month plan.
“Sling TV is an innovative new way to deliver content to consumers who are looking for alternatives beyond traditional pay television,” said Mark Greenberg, president and CEO of EPIX. “From the very creation of EPIX, we have sought to capitalize on new technology to reach people with our movies where they want them, when they want them and how they want them. This is another exciting step forward with a great partner in that effort.”
EPIX is a joint venture between Viacom, its Paramount Pictures unit, Lionsgate, and MGM. Perhaps the EPIX partnership is an indication of how Viacom will test the unbundled waters. For me, the addition of MTV, Comedy Central, and VH1 – even at a Hulu Plus-like premium – would be a game-changer for Sling TV. Still, the industry must be fairly impressed with the deals that Dish has been able to secure for Sling thus far.