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Sony Expands Free Live TV on PS5, Targeting Gamers and Advertisers
ReSony Expands Free Live TV on PS5, Targeting Gamers and Advertisers
Sony has launched Live TV on PS5, a free ad-supported streaming service with over 100 channels, aiming to reach engaged gamers and attract advertisers. Executive Keith Le Goy explains the strategy behind the move.
Sony has launched Live TV on PS5, a free ad-supported streaming service that offers PlayStation 5 owners access to more than 100 channels of television and movies. The service is part of Sony's effort to leverage its massive gaming audience and expand into the streaming market, according to Keith Le Goy, chairman of Sony Pictures TV.
In an interview with Variety, Le Goy described the initiative as «one plus one equaling a lot more than two,» highlighting the combination of PlayStation's 40-50 million engaged users and Sony's content library. He noted that these gamers are «incredibly engaged» with gaming but also enjoy movies and TV shows, presenting an opportunity to reach an audience that might not otherwise watch traditional linear TV. «That’s the other thing that Sony has, that frankly a lot of other companies would love to have, is a gaming business and the level of engagement with gamers and gaming fans,» Le Goy said.
The service operates similarly to other free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) platforms like Tubi, Roku, and Pluto, allowing users to watch content for free in exchange for viewing advertisements. Le Goy emphasized that this model benefits all parties: «So if we can give that audience something that they’re going to like in an environment that they are comfortable with, give our channel partners an audience that they are going to be going after and give their advertisers an audience that’s valuable for them, that is one plus one equaling a lot more than two.»
Sony's previous attempt at live TV on PlayStation, PlayStation Vue, was a paid service requiring at least $50 per month and shut down in 2020 amid the cord-cutting trend. The new Live TV on PS5 is free and ad-supported, aligning with current consumer preferences for on-demand, cost-free content. Le Goy believes Sony is uniquely positioned for success due to its ownership of both PlayStation and a vast content portfolio, which could translate into significant advertising revenue if the service gains traction.
The launch reflects broader industry trends where tech and gaming companies are increasingly converging with media and entertainment. By integrating free TV into the PS5 ecosystem, Sony aims to deepen user engagement and create new revenue streams. The service is available now to all PS5 owners in the United States, with no additional subscription required beyond an internet connection.
