Streaming services are expected to undergo significant changes by 2026, with a focus on consolidating content libraries and emphasizing proven intellectual properties to mitigate marketing risks. As companies like HBO Max consider sales, there may be a shift towards live events, sports, and unscripted content to retain subscribers. The industry is likely to prioritize "sticky content" such as procedurals and reality shows, especially with the rise of ad-tier subscriptions. While mergers may reduce the availability of unique content, there is potential for smaller services to differentiate themselves by offering niche and diverse content at competitive prices. This matters because the evolving streaming landscape will impact how audiences access and engage with content, emphasizing the need for variety and strategic content delivery to maintain viewer interest.
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