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- Paramount+ premium Ditches ‘Showtime’ in Streaming Package Rebrand
In a move that quietly took effect on June 23, Paramount Global has dropped “Showtime” from its top-tier streaming package, now known as Paramount+ Premium. Subscribers were informed of the change, which does not affect the plan’s pricing of $12.99 monthly or $119.99 annually.
Paramount+ Streamlines Its subscription Tiers
The streaming service now offers two primary subscription options: Paramount+ Premium, which is ad-free except for live local CBS streams, and Paramount+ Essential, an ad-supported plan priced at $7.99 per month or $59.99 per year. This adjustment comes after the company initially rebranded its ad-free package as paramount+ With Showtime in the summer of 2023, with the eventual goal of sunsetting the standalone Showtime streaming service, which officially shut down in April 2024 [1].
Did You Know? Paramount+ originally launched as CBS All Access before being rebranded in 2021 [2].
Why the Name Change?
According to a notice on Paramount’s customer support site, the rebranding to Paramount+ premium reflects the “broad and diverse offerings across both plan tiers,” especially since select Showtime content is now available on the Essential plan. Despite the name change, Showtime programming remains a significant part of Paramount+.
Paramount+ Premium subscribers can still access the full suite of Showtime original series, including popular titles like “Dexter: Original Sin,” “Yellowjackets,” and “The Chi.” The premium tier also includes live feeds of Showtime East and West, as well as 24/7 livestreams of CBS News, CBS Sports HQ, and Mixible news and pop culture [3].
Contrasting Strategies in the Streaming Wars
The decision to drop “Showtime” from the Paramount+ premium tier contrasts with rival Warner Bros.Discovery’s strategy. WBD plans to reattach the HBO name to its Max streamer, rebranding it as HBO Max again this summer. According to JB Perrette, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO of streaming and games, this move signals a focus on unique, high-quality content for adults and families [4].
Pro Tip: Check your specific device to ensure the name change is reflected, though Paramount assures that plan benefits remain unaffected during the transition.
Potential Confusion with Linear TV
Adding a layer of potential confusion,Paramount has confirmed that the Paramount+ With Showtime linear TV network,available on cable,satellite,and internet TV streaming services like Hulu with Live TV,will retain its current name.
Paramount+ Subscription Options: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Paramount+ Premium | Paramount+ Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.99/month or $119.99/year | $7.99/month or $59.99/year |
| Ads | No ads (except live CBS streams) | Includes ads |
| Showtime Content | Full access | Select content |
| Live Streams | Showtime East & West, CBS News, CBS Sports HQ, Mixible | CBS News, CBS Sports HQ |
What Does This Mean for Subscribers?
While the name change might seem minor, it reflects a broader strategy shift within Paramount Global as it navigates the competitive streaming landscape. The company aims to simplify its offerings while still providing value to subscribers through a diverse range of content.
Will this rebrand impact your viewing habits? What are your thoughts on the streaming service name changes?
The Evolution of Paramount+
Paramount+,originally launched as CBS All Access,has undergone significant transformations to compete in the crowded streaming market. the initial rebranding to Paramount+ signaled a broader content strategy, incorporating properties from across the Paramount Global portfolio. The addition of Showtime content further enhanced the service’s appeal, offering a mix of original series, movies, and live sports. The current streamlining of subscription tiers and the dropping of the “Showtime” name represent the latest chapter in Paramount+’s ongoing evolution.
The streaming landscape is constantly shifting, with companies experimenting with different pricing models, content bundles, and branding strategies. Paramount+’s moves reflect the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic market, as it seeks to attract and retain subscribers in an increasingly competitive surroundings.
What is Paramount+?
Paramount+ is a streaming service owned by Paramount Global, offering a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original programming.
What devices are compatible with Paramount+?
Paramount+ is compatible with moast streaming devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers.
How do I cancel my Paramount+ subscription?
You can cancel your Paramount+ subscription through your account settings on the Paramount+ website or app.
Does Paramount+ offer a free trial?
Paramount+ occasionally offers free trials to new subscribers. Check the Paramount+ website for current promotions.
Can I download content to watch offline on Paramount+?
Yes, Paramount+ allows you to download select content to watch offline on mobile devices.
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