Hulu

Definition

Hulu is a subscription-based streaming service that offers a wide variety of TV shows, movies, and original content for viewers. It has gained prominence as a significant player among streaming platforms, facilitating access to digital media while also navigating the complex landscape of digital distribution and licensing agreements. Hulu's model has contributed to trends like cord-cutting and unbundling, reshaping how audiences consume content in an era marked by rapid technological advancements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hulu started as a joint venture between NBCUniversal, News Corporation, and later included contributions from other major networks like Disney and Warner Bros.
2. Hulu was one of the first platforms to offer a combination of on-demand streaming and next-day airing of current TV episodes from major networks.
3. The service introduced original programming in 2016 with shows like 'The Handmaid's Tale,' marking its commitment to competing with other streaming giants like Netflix.
4. Hulu offers different subscription tiers, including ad-supported and ad-free options, catering to a wide range of viewing preferences.
5. Hulu's strategy of licensing content from various networks allows it to maintain a diverse library that appeals to different demographics and tastes.

Review Questions

• How does Hulu's business model impact its relationship with traditional television networks?
  • Hulu's business model creates a unique synergy with traditional television networks by allowing them to reach a broader audience while still maintaining their brand identity. By offering next-day access to current episodes, Hulu helps networks retain viewers who might otherwise abandon cable for streaming. This relationship is beneficial for both parties, as networks can monetize their content through Hulu while the platform enhances its offerings with popular shows.
• Discuss the implications of Hulu's original content on the competitive landscape of streaming services.
  • Hulu's investment in original content has significant implications for the streaming landscape by intensifying competition among platforms. By producing acclaimed series like 'The Handmaid's Tale,' Hulu not only attracts subscribers but also establishes itself as a serious contender against industry leaders like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. This shift encourages all streaming services to innovate and diversify their offerings, resulting in an overall increase in quality and variety for consumers.
• Evaluate how Hulu's approach to digital distribution and licensing reflects broader trends in media consumption.
  • Hulu’s approach to digital distribution and licensing embodies key trends such as the shift towards on-demand viewing and the decline of traditional cable subscriptions. By securing deals with various content providers and offering a mix of licensed and original programming, Hulu caters to changing consumer preferences for flexibility and accessibility. This reflects a larger movement where viewers increasingly favor personalized viewing experiences over scheduled programming, highlighting the evolving dynamics of media consumption in the digital age.

Related terms

Streaming Service: An online platform that allows users to watch video content over the internet without needing to download files.

On-Demand Content: Media content that can be accessed at any time by the user, as opposed to being broadcast at scheduled times.

Bundled Services: A package deal where multiple services are sold together, often at a lower price than purchasing each service separately.