Key Facts
- New cinema titles
- Supergirl, Scary Movie, Backrooms
- New free films
- Capote, Fruitvale Station, Six Degrees of Separation, Hart’s War, Lions for Lambs, Something In The Dirt, The Oak Room, Dreambuilders
- New FAST channels
- Winx Club TV, Homicide Hunter, The Cube, Garden Rescue, Tattoo Fixers, Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners, Four in a Bed
- Availability
- Smart TVs, online, mobile app
Background
Rakuten TV, a streaming platform available on smart TVs, online, and via its mobile app, offers both transactional movie rentals and purchases as well as ad-supported free content. The service has been expanding its free-to-watch catalogue to attract viewers who prefer not to subscribe to a streaming service.
This August, the platform is adding a mix of recent cinema releases and classic films to its transactional offering, alongside new free ad-supported channels. The move continues Rakuten TV's strategy of providing a range of viewing options without requiring a subscription.
Current Situation
Rakuten TV has announced that superhero adventure Supergirl will be among the latest films available to rent or buy on the platform this August. Other straight-from-the-cinema titles include Scary Movie and Backrooms, giving viewers the option to watch new releases without a subscription.
The platform is also expanding its free-to-watch catalogue with films available through its ad-supported service. New additions include Capote, Fruitvale Station, Six Degrees of Separation, Hart’s War, Lions for Lambs, Something In The Dirt, The Oak Room, and Dreambuilders.
In addition, Rakuten TV is launching several new FAST channels, offering free live and on-demand content supported by advertising. New channels include Rainbow’s Winx Club TV, featuring seasons of Winx Club, World of Winx, clips, and additional content from the franchise, alongside channels dedicated to Homicide Hunter, The Cube, Garden Rescue, Tattoo Fixers, Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners, and Four in a Bed.
| Category | Titles/Channels |
|---|---|
| Cinema releases | Supergirl, Scary Movie, Backrooms |
| Free films | Capote, Fruitvale Station, Six Degrees of Separation, Hart’s War, Lions for Lambs, Something In The Dirt, The Oak Room, Dreambuilders |
| FAST channels | Winx Club TV, Homicide Hunter, The Cube, Garden Rescue, Tattoo Fixers, Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners, Four in a Bed |
Impacts
Viewers who prefer to avoid subscription fees will have access to a broader selection of recent films and free ad-supported content. The addition of Supergirl and other cinema titles provides an alternative to theatrical or subscription-based viewing.
Fans of specific shows like Winx Club, Homicide Hunter, and Garden Rescue will find dedicated FAST channels, offering continuous access to their favorite programs. The expansion may also increase competition among ad-supported streaming services, potentially benefiting consumers with more choices.
Future Outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If Rakuten TV continues to add new cinema releases and FAST channels, it could strengthen its position in the ad-supported streaming market. The platform may attract more users who are looking for free entertainment options, potentially increasing advertising revenue.
However, the success of these additions will depend on viewer demand and the availability of popular titles. If the new channels and films perform well, Rakuten TV may expand further in this direction; if not, it could adjust its strategy. The impact on competitors remains to be seen, but the trend toward free, ad-supported streaming appears to be growing.
Source: atvtoday.co.uk
