CNN+ Launches Sans Roku, Android TV, Google TV Support

Like WarnerMedia’s HBO Max before it, its new CNN+ streaming service debuted without app support on Roku, the largest streaming platform.

For the moment, at least, CNN+ is also unavailable on Android TV and Google TV devices, the Samsung and LG OS TV platforms, and the Sony PlayStation and Microsoft Xbox game consoles.

The service, which launched on Tuesday, is currently available on desktop and through the CNN mobile app on Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS and Android phones and tablets.

Later this year, CNN+ will also be available on the Xfinity X1, Flex and XClass TV platforms, through WarnerMedia’s multi-platform distribution agreement with Comcast.

CNN has said that it is working on resolving the distribution limitations.

With dominant share of U.S. connected TV (CTV) households and 60 million active accounts worldwide, Roku has not been hesitant to use its clout to negotiate hard for favorable terms with app publishers.

HBO Max, launched in June 2020, was not available on Roku devices until December 2020, just before WarnerMedia simultaneously bowed “Wonder Woman 1984”on HBO Max and in theaters — its first day-and-date release. (HBO Max also initially lacked support on Amazon Fire TV, the country’s second-largest CTV platform.)

Roku has also tangled in recent times over renewal terms for Charter Communications’ Spectrum TV app, and for YouTube and YouTube TV, among others.

Next story loading loading..