CBS All Access, the streaming service launched by CBS Corporation in 2014, was once a promising player in the streaming wars. It offered a robust library of on-demand content, including popular TV shows, movies, and exclusive original content. However, in 2021, the service underwent a significant transformation, rebranding as Paramount+ and expanding its scope to become a more comprehensive entertainment platform. But what led to this change, and what happened to CBS All Access?
The Early Days Of CBS All Access
CBS All Access was launched in October 2014 as a way for CBS to tap into the growing streaming market. The service was initially designed to provide subscribers with on-demand access to CBS content, including current and past episodes of popular TV shows, as well as a selection of movies and original content. At launch, the service was available on a variety of platforms, including iOS, Android, and Roku, and offered a competitive pricing model, with subscriptions starting at $5.99 per month.
In the early days, CBS All Access focused on offering a robust library of content, including popular TV shows like NCIS, The Big Bang Theory, and Star Trek: Discovery. The service also invested heavily in original content, producing exclusive shows like Star Trek: Picard and The Good Fight, a spin-off of The Good Wife.
Growth And Expansion
In the years following its launch, CBS All Access experienced significant growth, with the service expanding to new platforms and adding more content to its library. In 2017, the service launched on Xbox and Windows 10 devices, and in 2018, it expanded to Amazon Channels, allowing Prime Video subscribers to access CBS All Access content directly through the Amazon platform.
In 2019, CBS All Access announced that it had reached 4 million subscribers, a significant milestone for the service. The company also announced plans to expand its international reach, launching the service in Canada and Australia later that year.
Challenges And Competition
Despite its growth, CBS All Access faced significant challenges in the increasingly crowded streaming market. The service struggled to compete with larger players like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, which offered more extensive libraries of content and more competitive pricing models.
In addition, CBS All Access faced competition from newer streaming services, like Disney+ and HBO Max, which offered exclusive content from popular franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter. These services posed a significant threat to CBS All Access, which lacked the same level of brand recognition and IP ownership.
The Rebranding Of CBS All Access
In 2020, ViacomCBS, the parent company of CBS Corporation, announced plans to rebrand CBS All Access as Paramount+, a more comprehensive entertainment platform. The decision was seen as a strategic move to expand the service’s scope and offer a more competitive product in the streaming market.
The rebranding was officially completed in March 2021, with the service relaunching as Paramount+ worldwide. The new platform offered a more extensive library of content, including TV shows, movies, and exclusive original content from Paramount Pictures, CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and other ViacomCBS brands.
What Happened To CBS All Access?
So, what happened to CBS All Access? In short, the service evolved. The rebranding from CBS All Access to Paramount+ marked a significant shift in strategy for ViacomCBS, as the company looked to expand its reach and offer a more comprehensive entertainment platform.
The decision to rebrand was likely driven by a number of factors, including the changing streaming landscape and the need to compete with larger players like Netflix and Disney+. By expanding its scope and offering a more extensive library of content, Paramount+ is better positioned to compete in the market.
Key Takeaways:
- CBS All Access was launched in 2014 as a streaming service offering on-demand access to CBS content.
- The service experienced significant growth, expanding to new platforms and adding more content to its library.
- Despite its growth, CBS All Access faced challenges in the crowded streaming market, struggling to compete with larger players like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
- In 2020, ViacomCBS announced plans to rebrand CBS All Access as Paramount+, a more comprehensive entertainment platform.
- The rebranding was completed in March 2021, with the service relaunching as Paramount+ worldwide.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2014 | CBS All Access launches as a streaming service offering on-demand access to CBS content. |
| 2017 | CBS All Access expands to Xbox and Windows 10 devices. |
| 2018 | CBS All Access launches on Amazon Channels, allowing Prime Video subscribers to access content directly through the Amazon platform. |
| 2019 | CBS All Access reaches 4 million subscribers and expands to Canada and Australia. |
| 2020 | ViacomCBS announces plans to rebrand CBS All Access as Paramount+, a more comprehensive entertainment platform. |
| 2021 | The rebranding is completed, with the service relaunching as Paramount+ worldwide. |
Conclusion
The rise and fall of CBS All Access is a testament to the rapidly evolving streaming landscape. From its launch in 2014 to its rebranding as Paramount+ in 2021, the service underwent significant changes, expanding its scope and offering a more comprehensive entertainment platform.
As the streaming market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Paramount+ competes with other players in the market. One thing is certain, however: the rebranding of CBS All Access marks a new chapter in the history of streaming, and sets the stage for an exciting future in the world of online entertainment.
What Was CBS All Access?
CBS All Access was a streaming service that was launched in 2014 by CBS Corporation. It was designed to provide users with access to a wide range of CBS content, including TV shows, movies, and original content that was exclusive to the platform. The service was available in the United States and Canada, and it was accessible via a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
At its peak, CBS All Access had a subscriber base of over 5 million users, making it one of the most popular streaming services in the United States. The platform offered a range of programming, including popular CBS shows such as Star Trek: Discovery, The Good Fight, and NCIS, as well as a selection of movies and documentaries.
What Was The Main Reason For The Rise Of CBS All Access?
The main reason for the rise of CBS All Access was its ability to provide users with exclusive content that was not available on other streaming platforms. The service’s flagship show, Star Trek: Discovery, was a major draw for fans of the Star Trek franchise, and it helped to drive subscription growth in the early years of the service. Additionally, the platform’s low price point and user-friendly interface made it an attractive option for users who were looking for a more affordable alternative to other streaming services.
The service’s focus on TV shows also helped to differentiate it from other streaming platforms, which were more focused on movies and original content. This focus on TV shows helped CBS All Access to attract a loyal subscriber base, and it enabled the service to carve out a niche for itself in the increasingly crowded streaming market.
What Led To The Decline Of CBS All Access?
One of the main factors that contributed to the decline of CBS All Access was the rise of other streaming services, such as Disney+ and HBO Max, which offered a wider range of content and more competitive pricing. These new entrants into the market put pressure on CBS All Access to expand its content offerings and reduce its prices, which put a strain on the service’s finances.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the service’s growth, as many users cancelled their subscriptions due to economic uncertainty and changes in viewing habits. This decline in subscribers, combined with the increasing competition from other streaming services, ultimately led to the decision to rebrand and reposition the service as Paramount+.
What Happened To The Original Content On CBS All Access?
When CBS All Access was rebranded as Paramount+, the original content that was exclusive to the platform was transferred to the new service. This means that users who subscribe to Paramount+ can still access the same range of original content that was available on CBS All Access, including shows such as Star Trek: Discovery and The Good Fight.
However, some of the original content that was produced specifically for CBS All Access may not be available on Paramount+, as the new service has a different focus and target audience. Ultimately, the decision to keep or remove original content from the platform will depend on the new management team and their strategy for the Paramount+ service.
Will I Still Be Able To Access CBS Content On Paramount+?
Yes, Paramount+ will still offer a range of CBS content, including TV shows and movies from the CBS library. In fact, one of the main benefits of the rebranding is that users will have access to a wider range of content, including programming from MTV, Nickelodeon, and Comedy Central, which were not previously available on CBS All Access.
However, it’s worth noting that the selection of CBS content on Paramount+ may be different from what was available on CBS All Access. The new service may prioritize certain types of content over others, and some shows or movies may be removed from the platform altogether. Users who are concerned about accessing specific CBS content may want to check the Paramount+ website or app to see what’s available.
Can I Still Use My CBS All Access Login Credentials On Paramount+?
If you were a subscriber to CBS All Access, you should be able to use your existing login credentials to access Paramount+. The rebranding process is designed to be seamless for users, and you should be able to continue watching your favorite shows and movies without interruption.
However, if you encounter any issues when trying to log in to Paramount+, you may need to reset your password or contact the customer support team for assistance. It’s also worth noting that some users may need to update their apps or software to access the new Paramount+ service.
What Does The Future Hold For Paramount+?
The future of Paramount+ looks bright, with a wide range of new content and features planned for the service. The rebranding is seen as a major opportunity for the company to expand its reach and attract new users, and the service is expected to be a major player in the streaming market in the coming years.
One of the main areas of focus for Paramount+ will be the development of new original content, including TV shows and movies that are exclusive to the platform. The service will also continue to offer a range of live TV channels and on-demand programming, making it a one-stop-shop for users who are looking for a comprehensive streaming experience.