CNN Launching New Paid and Free Streaming Options This Year

One of the most recognized brands in cable TV is trying to expand further into the digital space. According to a memo sent to employees by CEO Mark Thompson, CNN is creating new streaming options for its audiences, in the form of a new paid subscription option that will be offered via its website, as well as free ad-supported digital offerings that will center on CNN originals and Spanish-language programming that are set to launch by the end of 2024.

Key Details:

• The new streaming options are not a revival of CNN+, but do allow CNN to reenter a space vacated when CNN+ was shut down.
• Thompson had few details available on what types of programming specifically would be available.
• CNN fans can watch more content from the channel through the CNN Max hub on the Max streaming service.

The memo distributed by Thompson to CNN staff was light on details regarding exactly what would be placed on the new CNN subscription streaming service. But it did specify the paid service would be an extension of the CNN website, not a standalone streaming app in the style of the now-defunct CNN+. The memo also said the new CNN subscription option would launch by the end of 2024.

Also launching in 2024 will be two free, ad-supported offerings from CNN. One will focus on the channel’s original series on productions, while the other will distribute content from its Spanish-language service. These are likely to come in the form of free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels that could be available on platforms like Pluto TV and Tubi.

“We plan to take the journalistic firepower, user-experience and commercial potential of CNN Digital to the next level with strategic commitment, significant fresh investment, an injection of specialist expertise and plenty of creativity and experimentation,’” Thompson said in the memo. “We will develop new digital products with a special focus on digital experiences worth paying for.”

What Other Options for Watching CNN Are Available?

CNN audiences are likely already aware that they can no longer access any of the channel’s content on CNN+. That service was formed in early 2022, but one of the first moves by the newly-created Warner Bros. Discovery after the merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery in that year was to shut down CNN+ just weeks after it hit the market.

The service found new life in a way on Max, the streaming product launched in May 2023 which incorporated all content from HBO Max and most of the shows and movies found on discovery+. A few months later, Max launched the CNN Max hub, which offers a combination of bespoke programming designed solely for streaming alongside flagship CNN shows featuring highly recognized talent from the network. All viewers can watch CNN Max as part of a Max subscription at no extra charge.

Viewers can also find the CNN cable channel on a wide range of live TV streaming services, at multiple price points. The cheapest way to watch the channel is with a subscription to Sling TV starting at $20 for your first month, or you can watch the channel using a free trial of either DIRECTV STREAM or Hulu + Live TV. YouTube TV also carries CNN in its base plan.