Cable Is Back! Netflix Eyes 24/7 Live TV Streaming Channels

Netflix built its streaming empire by letting viewers watch what they want, when they want. Now, the company may be considering a more traditional approach: always-on television channels that keep content running around the clock.

Basically what cable TV was, but streaming through the internet.

At the same time, Netflix is reportedly exploring an acquisition of Letterboxd, the popular film-review social platform. Together, the moves suggest the streaming giant is looking beyond binge releases to increase engagement, advertising opportunities, and its influence over how audiences discover entertainment.
 

TL;DR

• Netflix is reportedly considering 24/7 live channels that continuously stream selected programming.
• The format could strengthen its advertising business and compete more directly with Pluto TV and Tubi.
• Netflix is also reportedly among several parties holding early discussions about buying Letterboxd.

Netflix Considers Always-On Live TV Channels To Increase Viewer Engagement

As per reports, Netflix is exploring live channels that would continuously broadcast programming, allowing subscribers to tune in without choosing a specific show or movie.

The experience would resemble traditional television and free ad-supported streaming television services, where viewers can leave a channel playing for hours. This could give Netflix another way to hold audience attention as engagement shows signs of slowing.

Netflix accounted for 7.8% of total TV viewing in April, according to Nielsen. The company is also reportedly concerned about audience declines between the first and second seasons of several original shows, highlighting the challenge of turning individual hits into long-term viewing habits.

Always-on channels could also benefit Netflix’s advertising operations. Unlike on-demand programming, live streams typically make it harder for viewers to skip commercials, creating more consistent advertising inventory.
 

Netflix Explores Streaming Bundles As Competition Intensifies

The company is also reportedly evaluating subscription bundles similar to those offered by Apple and Amazon. Peacock is among the services discussed as a possible partner.

These plans would add to Netflix’s recent engagement experiments, including short-form video, video podcasts, and a gaming app aimed at children.
 

Netflix Reportedly Joins Early Talks To Acquire Letterboxd

Netflix is also reportedly among several potential buyers considering Letterboxd. Sony Pictures Entertainment, Paramount Skydance, TPG, RedBird Capital Partners, and Reddit co-creator Alexis Ohanian have also been linked to early discussions.

Letterboxd was founded in 2011 and is majority-owned by Canadian holding company Tiny, which acquired a 60% stake in 2023 at a valuation of between $50 million and $60 million. Its co-founders, Matthew Buchanan and Karl von Randow, retain the remaining 40%.

Reports suggest Letterboxd’s advisers have floated a valuation of approximately $250 million.

“As Letterboxd has grown, it’s natural there will be interest in what we do next. There’s nothing specific for us to share at this time. Any decision about Letterboxd’s future would involve the founders,” a Letterboxd representative said.

An acquisition could give Netflix access to an influential community built around film reviews and discovery. However, ownership by a major studio or streaming platform could also raise questions about whether Letterboxd would remain neutral when recommending or promoting titles.