JioHotstar, the streaming platform owned by JioStar, has crossed 100 million paid subscribers within two months of its February 14 launch. This milestone follows the merger of Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema. The subscriber count includes both direct sign-ups and those acquired through telecom bundling deals. At launch, the platform had 50 million paying subscribers, alongside 500 million overall users.
Commitment to Accessibility and Innovation
Kiran Mani, CEO – Digital at JioHotstar, highlighted the platform’s vision of making top-tier entertainment accessible to all. “Crossing 100 million subscribers reinforces India’s immense potential and strengthens our commitment to pioneering category-first experiences at scale,” he stated. JioHotstar aims to continue innovating, enhancing accessibility, and reshaping the streaming landscape.
Expansive Content and Sports Offerings
As a product of the Viacom18-Star India merger, JioHotstar offers an extensive catalog of over 3 lakh hours of entertainment, featuring content from Disney, HBO, and Paramount. Available in 10 languages, it also includes ‘Sparks,’ a special segment showcasing leading digital creators. Additionally, JioHotstar is a major hub for live sports, streaming IPL, ICC tournaments, the Premier League, and more. Advanced features such as 4K streaming, AI-driven insights, and multi-angle viewing enhance user experience.
Competitive Position and Future Growth
Competing with Netflix and Prime Video, JioHotstar has secured telecom bundling deals with major providers like Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vi. According to an FICCI-EY report, video OTT subscriptions in India are expected to rise from 47 million households in 2024 to 65 million by 2027. The report suggests that JioHotstar could become the dominant “first subscription pack,” driven by its extensive film library and premium sports content. Its pricing strategy, particularly around IPL, will play a crucial role in shaping its market dominance.
Valuation and Market Impact
JioStar, the $8.5 billion joint venture between Reliance Industries and Disney, valued JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar higher than their linear TV businesses during the merger process. With its rapid subscriber growth and strong content lineup, JioHotstar is poised to reshape India’s digital entertainment landscape.
