Several streaming services have launched cheaper ad-supported tiers in the Nordics lately, e.g. Skyshowtime and Max this spring. Now Viaplay in Denmark is joining, with the launch of an HVOD alternative. Viaplay launched an HVOD offer named Films & Series with advertising. The new package has the same supply of films, series, and children's content as the non-ad Films & Series package. Content for children remains ad-free. Also, the subscribers of the ad-supported tier cannot download content, which the ad-free Films & Series package allows for.
Viaplay states that the new tier holds fewer commercial minutes per hour than its’ traditional TV does. In the online version, content that is shorter than 20 minutes will start with one block but has no commercial breaks. A film or series of one hour will normally hold 2 to 3 advertising breaks, however, Viaplay states that the number of ads may vary.
Viaplay Films & Series with ads costs DKK 99 per month, which is DKK 50 less than the ad-free Film & Series package (DKK 149 per month). Viaplay also offers a launch deal with the first two months at a 50 percent discount (DKK 49 per month). So far, the HVOD offering is only available in Denmark. However, we expect a wider launch in the Nordics soon as this was one of the main topics at the company’s latest quarterly presentation.