AMC Networks brought BBC News channel to free streaming services

This decision coincides with internal pressures within the BBC to generate higher revenues from its commercial arm

AMC Networks and BBC Studios have partnered to introduce the 24-hour international channel BBC News to free, ad-supported streaming platforms in the United States. Commencing this week, BBC News will become available on various platforms, including Dish Network’s Sling Freestream, Samsung TV Plus, Paramount Global’s Pluto TV, Comcast’s Xumo Play, Vizio’s WatchFree Plus, and Plex. In the United States, AMC holds the exclusive distribution rights to BBC News, which has predominantly been accessible through cable, satellite, and select streaming cable TV alternatives over the past decade. This expansion into free, ad-supported streaming services marks the channel's debut beyond the traditional pay TV bundle in the region.

The BBC News streaming channel will mirror the schedule of the cable and satellite BBC News channels. Concurrently, pay TV providers such as Comcast, Dish Network, Philo, and Charter’s Spectrum TV will continue offering BBC News through their carriage agreements with AMC, which also encompasses the distribution of the flagship AMC channel, IFC, BBC America, Sundance, and We TV. The launch of BBC News on free, ad-supported streaming platforms represents a strategic move in the BBC's long-term vision, which includes expanding its presence in the streaming landscape and further leveraging its brand and content offerings. Additionally, Pluto TV and other platforms will introduce a new BBC Earth channel and revamped versions of BBC Food and BBC Home and Gardens.