Viaplay Group secures multi-market device partnership with VIDAA

Viaplay Group and Hisense’s fast-growing Smart TV platform VIDAA recently agreed upon a multi-market, multi-year device partnership. “Viaplay is a unique service, and we want our compelling line-up of premium Viaplay Originals, the world’s best live sports and much more to be easily available on every relevant platform," Philip Wågnert, Viaplay Group Chief Technology & Product Officer said. "Teaming up with VIDAA will expand our reach and enable even more viewers, including in our upcoming North American markets, to experience Viaplay for themselves.”

Under the terms of the deal, the Viaplay streaming service app will be pre-installed on all Hisense Smart TVs sold in Viaplay’s current direct-to-consumer markets and in North America, where Viaplay will launch in early 2023.According to the companies, the Viaplay app will receive premium placement in the Hisense user interface, and a dedicated Viaplay button will be added to all new Hisense TV remote control units sold in the Nordic region. 

With an established global footprint, Hisense is considered the second-largest TV brand by volume share worldwide. Launched in 2019, the company’s VIDAA platform is today available in all Hisense markets and supports a broad range of Smart TV apps and technologies. “This is a very exciting opportunity for both parties as well as for streaming enthusiasts. At VIDAA, we believe in making streaming services accessible and affordable to a diverse demographic, and partnering with a leading industry player that offers a wide array of multinational content such as Viaplay is an essential part of that process," Nick Ruczaj, Vice President, Content, VIDAA, said.

In the Nordic and Baltic countries, Poland, the Netherlands and the UK, Viaplay houses various Viaplay Originals, premium third-party content and live sports. Viaplay shows Premier League football in nine countries, Formula 1 in 10 countries (from 2023) and many more of the world’s most attractive sports. The service will launch in the US and Canada with an offering focusing on Nordic storytelling.