Substack, the popular platform for independent writers and publications, has expanded into television. The company's new TV app is now available on Apple TV and Google TV devices, bringing its high-quality video content to a wider audience.
The app focuses on providing reliable viewing experiences for Substack users, with features such as video posts and livestreams from their favorite creators and publications. A "For You" section uses algorithmic recommendations to suggest videos based on individual user interests, while dedicated pages allow users to browse content by channel.
Substack has stated that it will maintain the same paywall structure across all platforms, meaning that if a creator restricts certain content to paying subscribers on the mobile app and website, the same restrictions apply on the TV app. However, the company plans to introduce previews of paid content for free subscribers in the future, as well as additional features such as audio posts, improved discovery, and separate sections for different shows within a single publication.
The launch of the Substack TV app has been met with mixed reactions from users. Some, like former CNN anchor Jim Acosta, see it as a "game-changing moment" for independent media, while others, including Ashli Pollard, have expressed skepticism about the need for another video platform. However, many are welcoming the new feature, recognizing its potential to expand Substack's reach and offer users more ways to engage with their favorite content.
The app can be easily found in the tvOS App Store or Apps section on Google and Android TV devices, and users can sign in using a QR code from their phone. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Substack's new TV app contributes to the growth of independent publishing and the diversification of digital content.
The app focuses on providing reliable viewing experiences for Substack users, with features such as video posts and livestreams from their favorite creators and publications. A "For You" section uses algorithmic recommendations to suggest videos based on individual user interests, while dedicated pages allow users to browse content by channel.
Substack has stated that it will maintain the same paywall structure across all platforms, meaning that if a creator restricts certain content to paying subscribers on the mobile app and website, the same restrictions apply on the TV app. However, the company plans to introduce previews of paid content for free subscribers in the future, as well as additional features such as audio posts, improved discovery, and separate sections for different shows within a single publication.
The launch of the Substack TV app has been met with mixed reactions from users. Some, like former CNN anchor Jim Acosta, see it as a "game-changing moment" for independent media, while others, including Ashli Pollard, have expressed skepticism about the need for another video platform. However, many are welcoming the new feature, recognizing its potential to expand Substack's reach and offer users more ways to engage with their favorite content.
The app can be easily found in the tvOS App Store or Apps section on Google and Android TV devices, and users can sign in using a QR code from their phone. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Substack's new TV app contributes to the growth of independent publishing and the diversification of digital content.
... it's a bold move that could really shake up the media landscape. I mean, think about it - this platform is all about supporting creators and giving them more control over their content. And now they're bringing that same energy to the small screen? It's a win-win in my books! The fact that they're keeping the paywall structure consistent across platforms is also a major plus... it shows they're committed to helping writers make ends meet.
. Don't get me wrong, I love Substack and think they're doing great things for indie writers and publications. But do we really need another video platform? 
And what about discovery - will this just lead to more content being churned out and less quality content standing out? 
I'm also curious to see how creators will use this new platform - some might love it, while others might not have the bandwidth or resources to keep up with video production. 
i mean think about it, more ways to access the amazing content from my fave creators 
like, i've been waiting for a platform that lets me watch my favorite podcasts come to life on screen 
and this seems like exactly what they're going to deliver 
i'm not gonna lie though, a bit skeptical about the app's algorithm thingy 
... seriously though, this is a big deal for indie writers and creators. having tv as an option can help them reach a bigger audience and monetize their content more effectively. at the same time, some ppl might be skeptical about why we need another video platform 
and honestly, i think it's a no-brainer - more ways to consume quality content means more people will discover new authors & shows... unless ur like ashli pollard and u think tv is just a fad 
. but seriously, substack's got this. can't wait for those previews of paid content 
! It's like, finally a platform that understands what we want from our online content creators - quality content, behind-the-scenes stuff, and a sense of community. I mean, who doesn't love binge-watching their fave Substack authors' livestreams or video posts on the go? 
. I'm excited to see how this new app expands Substack's reach and brings more visibility to independent writers and publishers - it's a game-changer for the media landscape, imo! 
! I love how they're keeping the paywall structure consistent across all platforms, it's gonna be awesome to see more creators sharing their content with us! 
and introducing previews of paid content for free subs is a genius move 
can't wait to dive into some awesome shows & videos 
.
. One thing's for sure: if Substack can pull it off, we might just see some amazing new shows and series from indie creators that were previously underserved. Fingers crossed! 
. Some people might think it's unnecessary, but I'm all about expanding our media options 
they've already got a solid user base on their platform, now they're expanding into tv? that's like, next level 
according to their numbers, 70% of users say they'd watch more creator content if it were available on tv 
on the flip side, some folks are worried about over-saturation of media outlets 
. With more platforms emerging and existing ones innovating, it's gonna be tough for readers to keep up – but in a good way 
.
) will tell if it'll be a game-changer for the industry!
. what do u guys think about substack's tv app? 
like can we actually have a human colony on mars within our lifetime? 
. Overall, I'm curious to see how this plays out and whether Substack can actually make it work in the TV space 
The only thing I'd love to see is some more features for free subscribers, like maybe a "Discovery" section with intro vids or something. But overall, this is like the ultimate move by Substack and I am here for it! 