top of page
Writer's pictureInsightTrendsWorld

Insight of the Day: Tubi or not Tubi? The weirdest streaming service has the most devoted fans

Detailed Findings:

  • Tubi is a FAST (free, ad-supported television) service owned by Fox, offering a vast and eclectic library of movies and TV shows.

  • Content Variety:  The service boasts over 275,000 movies and TV episodes, ranging from mainstream hits and Criterion classics to obscure B-movies and independent films.

  • Rapid Growth: Tubi streamed 10 billion hours of content in 2024 and surpassed 97 million users, experiencing significant growth while paid services raise prices.

  • Unique Appeal: Tubi's appeal lies in its "treasure hunt" nature, offering a chaotic mix of content that feels like a digital version of a bargain bin or a throwback to channel surfing.

  • Original Programming: Tubi is also producing original content, including movies and talk shows, adding to its diverse offerings.

  • Strong Fan Base:  The service has a devoted following who appreciate its free access, vast library, and the thrill of discovering hidden gems.

  • Accessibility for Independent Filmmakers: Tubi provides a platform for independent filmmakers, particularly Black filmmakers, to reach a wider audience.

  • No Gatekeepers: The platform's open-door policy results in a wide range of quality, from critically acclaimed films to amateur productions.

Key Takeaway:

Tubi has carved out a unique niche in the streaming landscape by offering a free, ad-supported service with a vast, eclectic, and often unpredictable library that appeals to a dedicated audience seeking a different kind of streaming experience.

Main Trend:

The Rise of FAST Services and the Democratization of Content Consumption

Description of the Trend:

Free, ad-supported television (FAST) services like Tubi are gaining popularity as consumers seek alternatives to increasingly expensive subscription-based streaming platforms. These services offer a vast array of content, often with a focus on niche or independent productions, and are democratizing content consumption by providing free access to a wider range of programming.

What is Consumer Motivation:

  • Cost Savings: Consumers are attracted to the free nature of FAST services, especially as subscription fatigue sets in.

  • Content Discovery: The thrill of finding hidden gems and unexpected content in a vast library.

  • Nostalgia: The experience mimics the feeling of channel surfing in the pre-streaming era.

  • Accessibility:  Tubi's availability on a wide range of devices makes it easily accessible.

  • Support for Independent Filmmakers:  A desire to support independent creators and discover diverse voices.

What is Driving Trend:

  • Rising subscription costs of major streaming services.

  • The proliferation of streaming devices and smart TVs.

  • The increasing availability of high-speed internet.

  • A desire for a more diverse and less algorithmically curated content experience.

  • The appeal of a "treasure hunt" discovery process.

What is Motivation Beyond the Trend:

A desire for a more serendipitous and less controlled entertainment experience, a rejection of the homogenization of mainstream streaming, and a yearning for a sense of discovery and surprise in content consumption.

Who are the People Article is Referring to:

  • Tubi Users:  A diverse group of viewers who appreciate free content, enjoy discovering hidden gems, and are not afraid of low-budget or unconventional productions.

  • Independent Filmmakers: Creators who find a platform for their work on Tubi.

  • Tubi Executives: Nicole Parlapiano and others who are shaping the platform's strategy.

  • Industry Analysts: Observers who are tracking the growth of FAST services.

Description of Consumers, Product, or Service Article is Referring to and What is Their Age:

The article refers to a wide range of consumers, but particularly highlights:

  • "Tubi Treasure Hunters": Like Adam Schmersal, who actively seek out the most ridiculous and obscure movies on the platform.

  • Film Enthusiasts: Like Austin Elliott, who appreciate Tubi's open-door policy for independent filmmakers.

  • Budget-Conscious Viewers: Those who are looking for free entertainment options.

  • Fans of Niche Content: Individuals interested in specific genres or types of films that may not be well-represented on mainstream platforms.

  • Black audiences: Who appreciate diverse content and representation.

Age: The article mentions individuals ranging from 24 to 53 years old, suggesting a broad age appeal, although the emphasis on discovering "hidden gems" and the chaotic nature of the platform likely skews towards a younger, more adventurous demographic.

Product or Service:

Tubi is a free, ad-supported streaming service offering a vast library of movies and TV shows, including mainstream titles, independent films, B-movies, and original programming.

Conclusions:

Tubi's success demonstrates a growing appetite for free, ad-supported streaming options and a desire for a more diverse and less curated content experience. The platform's unique appeal lies in its vast, eclectic library, its accessibility for independent filmmakers, and the thrill of discovery it offers to viewers.

Implications for Brands:

  • Consider advertising on FAST services like Tubi: Reach a large and engaged audience at a potentially lower cost than traditional advertising.

  • Explore partnerships with FAST services:  Offer branded content or sponsor specific programming on platforms like Tubi.

  • Develop content for FAST services: Create original programming that caters to the unique tastes of the Tubi audience.

Implications for Society:

  • Increased access to a wider range of content:  FAST services can democratize entertainment by providing free access to diverse programming.

  • Support for independent creators:  Platforms like Tubi can provide a valuable outlet for filmmakers who might not otherwise find distribution.

  • Potential for increased ad exposure:  Consumers may be exposed to more advertising as they embrace free, ad-supported services.

Implications for Consumers:

  • More free entertainment options:  Consumers can enjoy a vast library of content without paying for a subscription.

  • Opportunity to discover new and unique content:  Tubi offers a chance to explore films and shows that might not be available on other platforms.

  • Exposure to more advertising:  Consumers will need to tolerate ads in exchange for free access to content.

Implication for Future:

  • FAST services are likely to continue to grow in popularity: As subscription costs rise and consumers seek more diverse content, platforms like Tubi will become even more attractive.

  • The line between traditional television and streaming will continue to blur: FAST services are essentially recreating the cable TV experience in a streaming environment.

  • Competition among FAST services will intensify:  As the market grows, we can expect to see more players entering the space and vying for viewers.

Consumer Trend (Detailed Description):

Embrace of the "Bargain Bin" Streaming Experience: Consumers are increasingly embracing the chaotic, unpredictable, and often low-budget nature of FAST services like Tubi. They are finding joy in the "treasure hunt" aspect of discovering hidden gems and are less concerned with slick production values or algorithmic curation.

Consumer Sub Trend (Detailed Description):

"So Bad It's Good" Appreciation:  A subset of Tubi users specifically seek out low-budget, poorly made, or unintentionally hilarious movies for their entertainment value. They appreciate the campy, absurd, and often unpredictable nature of these films.

Big Social Trend (Detailed Description):

Rejection of Algorithmic Curation:  A growing number of consumers are expressing fatigue with the highly curated and often homogenous content recommendations of mainstream streaming services. They are seeking a more serendipitous and less controlled entertainment experience.

Local Trend (Detailed Description):

Tubi as a Platform for Local Filmmakers: In specific communities, particularly among Black filmmakers as mentioned in the article, Tubi is becoming a go-to platform for showcasing their work and reaching a local audience.

Worldwide Social Trend (Detailed Description):

Subscription Fatigue:  Consumers globally are becoming overwhelmed by the increasing number of subscription services and the rising costs associated with them. This is driving them towards free or more affordable entertainment options.

Name of the Big Trend Implied by Article:

The FAST and the Curious: The Rise of Free, Ad-Supported Streaming

Name of Big Social Trend Implied by Article:

The Anti-Algorithm Movement

Social Drive (Detailed Description):

The social drive behind these trends is multifaceted:

  • Desire for affordable entertainment.

  • Rejection of the perceived elitism and homogenization of mainstream streaming.

  • Yearning for a sense of discovery and surprise in content consumption.

  • Support for independent creators and diverse voices.

  • Nostalgia for the pre-streaming era of channel surfing.

Learnings for Companies to Use in 2025:

  • Free, ad-supported streaming is a growing market with significant potential.

  • Consumers are seeking diverse and often unconventional content.

  • The "treasure hunt" aspect of content discovery is a major draw for FAST services.

  • Independent filmmakers are finding a valuable platform on services like Tubi.

  • There is a growing audience for "so bad it's good" entertainment.

Strategy Recommendations for Companies to Follow in 2025:

  1. Invest in FAST services:  Either launch your own FAST service or partner with existing platforms like Tubi.

  2. Develop content for FAST audiences: Create original programming that caters to the unique tastes of this demographic, including low-budget genre films, niche programming, and diverse voices.

  3. Embrace the "treasure hunt" experience:  Don't be afraid to offer a wide range of content, even if it's not all high-quality or mainstream.

  4. Support independent filmmakers:  Provide a platform for creators who might not otherwise find distribution.

  5. Utilize targeted advertising:  Leverage the data available through FAST services to deliver relevant ads to viewers.

  6. Experiment with different content formats:  Explore interactive content, live streams, and other innovative formats that can thrive in a FAST environment.

Final Sentence (Key Concept) Describing Main Trend:

The main trend in 2025 will be the continued rise of FAST services like Tubi, driven by consumer demand for free, diverse, and often unconventional content, signaling a shift away from the dominance of subscription-based streaming and a democratization of content consumption.

What Brands & Companies Should Do in 2025 to Benefit from Trend and How to Do It:

Brands and companies should embrace the rise of FAST services and the democratization of content consumption by investing in these platforms, developing content that caters to this audience, and utilizing targeted advertising to reach engaged viewers.

How to do it:

  1. Advertise on FAST services: Place ads on platforms like Tubi to reach a large and growing audience.

  2. Create branded content for FAST: Develop original programming or sponsor existing content that aligns with your brand's values and target audience.

  3. Partner with FAST services: Explore opportunities for product placement, sponsorships, and other forms of collaboration.

  4. Develop your own FAST channel:  If you have a large library of content, consider launching your own FAST channel to reach a wider audience.

Final Note:

By implementing these strategies, brands can successfully take advantage of the The Rise of FAST Services and the Democratization of Content Consumption, Embrace of the "Bargain Bin" Streaming Experience, The FAST and the Curious: The Rise of Free, Ad-Supported Streaming trends. They can market to consumers who are looking for free entertainment, diverse content, and a sense of discovery and are interested in supporting independent filmmakers, exploring niche genres, and experiencing the thrill of the "treasure hunt". They can be a part of the Rejection of Algorithmic Curation and The Anti-Algorithm Movement trends.

Kommentare


bottom of page