Less Flash, More Facts: What’s Really Going On in Streaming

Streaming is shifting—again. But this time, it’s not just about which platform has the hottest show or the biggest bundle. It’s about how viewers are rethinking value, how platforms are doubling down on ad-supported models, and how local providers like you are in a unique position to meet people where they are (without losing your edge).

In this edition, we’re digging into what the numbers say, what the industry headlines really mean, and why community-focused providers aren’t just keeping up—they’re leading the way. Plus, we’ve got a new podcast episode to share, fresh memes, and details on where you can find us this August.

Let’s get into it.

Why Ads Might Be the Hero Streaming Needs

For years, cutting the cord meant cutting commercials. Ad-free viewing became the gold standard—something you paid extra for to feel like you were truly in control. But the tides are turning. Again.

A growing number of viewers are rethinking that tradeoff. According to a recent MSN article, cost-conscious consumers are leaning into ad-supported models—not just tolerating them, but choosing them. And platforms are following suit, launching new tiers that bring back ads in exchange for lower pricing or expanded content access.

So, what does this mean for you?

For providers in smaller markets and tight-knit communities, this shift isn’t just a trend—it’s an opportunity. Ad-supported content levels the playing field. It opens up new revenue paths and lets you deliver quality viewing experiences without passing high subscription costs onto your customers.

It’s also a chance to rethink what a local bundle could look like in 2025. If national platforms are rebuilding around commercials, local providers can do the same—offering smart, flexible packages that respect both the viewer’s wallet and attention span.

At Whitepaw, we’ve always believed that the future of TV isn't about going back or moving forward—it's about adapting smarter. Commercials aren’t the villain here. When done right, they can fund better content, lower barriers to entry, and support the providers who actually know their communities.

Just Dropped: No Commercial Breaks – A New Episode of Beyond Bandwidth

The newest episode of Beyond Bandwidth is live, and we’re going straight to the heart of today’s biggest streaming shake-up: ads are back, and this time, it’s intentional.

We talk through why ad-supported models are gaining steam, how viewers are warming up to the idea, and what this all means for you—especially if you’re looking for new ways to deliver value without driving up costs.

Real insight, zero fluff.
Listen now on LinkedIn

How the Streaming Ad Market Is Changing—for Better and Worse (MSN): Who’s getting it right, who’s missing the mark, and what all of this ad-market chaos means for platforms trying to strike a balance between revenue and viewer experience.

Amazon Wins Lawsuit Over Prime Video Ads (NewsBytes): Amazon can now legally insert ads into Prime Video—even for paying subscribers. It’s a big win for platforms, but raises real questions about transparency and control.

Infuse Adds iCloud Drive Streaming Support (9to5Mac): A fan-favorite media player just got even more powerful. Infuse now lets you stream directly from iCloud Drive—no server, no hoops, just your content on demand.

Behind the Metrics: What the Numbers Really Mean for You

We know—data doesn’t always tell the full story. But when you’re in the business of delivering real value to real communities, industry benchmarks can offer insight into how you stack up—and where you can stand out.

Streaming App Benchmarks

The latest report from Business of Apps breaks down how the biggest streaming platforms are performing in areas like session length, user retention, and churn. The headline? Viewer loyalty is slipping, and attention spans are shorter than ever.

What this means for local providers: Personalized, consistent service is still your superpower. When you actually know your subscribers—and they know you—there’s a level of trust and reliability that global apps just can’t replicate.

Netflix: IPO to Now

MSN reports that Netflix stock has grown more than 112,000% since its IPO. It’s a jaw-dropping number—but it also comes with big questions about sustainability, pricing fatigue, and what comes next for mega platforms.

Your takeaway: While tech giants chase market share and margins, local and regional providers like you are doubling down on dependability. You’re not chasing trends—you’re building long-term trust, one customer at a time.

Catch Us at The Independent Show 2025

I’m heading to Salt Lake City this August for The Independent Show 2025, and I’d love to see you there.

August 10–13, 2025
Hyatt Regency + Salt Palace Convention Center

This event always brings together some of the most thoughtful people in the business—folks who actually care about their communities, not just the latest tech buzz. Whether you’re rethinking your video lineup, navigating what broadband looks like next, or just want to catch up in person, let’s make it happen.

Jean and I will both be on-site, sitting in on sessions, chatting with partners, and sharing how we’re helping local providers stay competitive without losing sight of who they serve.

If you’ll be there too, come find us. We’ll be the ones skipping the jargon and talking about what’s really working.

That’s a wrap for this edition. Whether you’re rethinking your video lineup, tracking where the ad-supported model is headed, or just trying to keep up with what your subscribers actually want—know that you’re not doing it alone. We’re here to help you cut through the noise, keep your service competitive, and stay rooted in what matters most: your community.

If anything in here sparked a thought or raised a question, hit reply—I’d love to hear from you.

Talk soon,
Emily Call