Streaming Services Updates in May

The global streaming landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and May 2025 was no exception. From new platform launches and strategic rebrands to expanded access models and market-specific innovations, this month brought notable updates across Latin America, North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. In this roundup, we highlight the key developments shaping the future of digital entertainment worldwide.

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Stay tuned for all the essential streaming services updates you need to know. Plus, explore detailed platform profiles through BB Media’s Streaming Services Directory by clicking platform names! 

Latin America: Surge in Free Ad-Supported Platforms 

Sua Novela Debuts in Brazil 

Kwai, the popular short video app in Brazil, has introduced Sua Novela, a free ad-supported streaming platform offering short-format fiction series tailored for mobile users. Currently available on Android, with an iOS version forthcoming, it caters to audiences seeking quick, engaging local content. 

Watch Free Launches by Watch Brazil 

Watch Brazil unveiled Watch Free, a free ad-supported streaming service featuring eight live channels and over 500 on-demand titles. Announced at the 2025 Abrint Global Congress, it targets ISP partners by providing value-added content and new advertising revenue opportunities. 

MUBI GO Expands to Mexico 

On May 29th, MUBI launched MUBI GO in Mexico, offering subscribers one cinema ticket per week to watch curated films at select theaters. Priced at USD 14.30 per month, or USD 9.20 for the first month, it brings quality cinema experiences beyond MUBI’s online catalog. 

PlayPlus Rebrands to RECORDPlus 

Brazilian broadcaster Record has rebranded its streaming platform PlayPlus to RECORDPlus. This transformation includes new cloud-based technology and personalized ads, aiming to enhance user experience and digital innovation. 

Disney+ Introduces Ad-Supported Plan in Mexico 

Disney+ has launched its Ad-Supported Standard Plan for direct purchase in Mexico at USD 6.66 per month. Subscribers can stream top content, including Moana 2 and live sports, with support for two devices, Full HD, and Stereo 5.1. 

TNT Sports Accessible via Telecentro in Argentina 

Telecentro now offers nationwide access to TNT Sports via streaming, even for users without a pay-TV subscription. For USD 11.80 per month, football fans across Argentina can subscribe and watch Liga Profesional matches, including the River–Boca derby, through the Max platform on compatible devices. 

North America: Expansion of Streaming Offerings 

VEEPS All Access Launches in Canada 

VEEPS All Access has officially launched in Canada, providing unlimited live entertainment via the VEEPS app for USD 14 per month. To celebrate, Canadian subscribers can stream a special live show by Metric from Toronto’s Budweiser Stage on June 6th. 

MASN+ Introduces Direct-to-Consumer Streaming 

MASN has introduced MASN+, a direct-to-consumer streaming service offering access to Orioles and Nationals games for viewers in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. markets. Priced at USD 19.99 per month or USD 89.99 for the remainder of the 2025 season, the service is available across multiple platforms, eliminating the need for cable subscriptions and blackout restrictions. 

CNN Plans New Streaming Product 

CNN will launch a new streaming product in fall 2025 as part of its All Access subscription tier, initially in the U.S. Subscribers will gain access to live channels, catch-up features, and on-demand content via the CNN app, connected TVs, and CNN.com. 

ESPN Announces Standalone Streaming Service 

ESPN is set to launch a new standalone streaming service this fall, offering full access to all ESPN networks and live sports, including ABC broadcasts, for USD 29.99 per month. A “select” ESPN+ plan and a full Disney bundle priced at USD 35.99 per month will also be available. 

Fox One Streaming Service on the Horizon 

Fox Corporation has announced Fox One, a new streaming service set to launch ahead of the NFL season, targeting cord-nevers with live and on-demand access to Fox, Fox News, FS1, and more. The platform will feature sports, news, and entertainment, plus advanced personalization. Pricing details are forthcoming. 

Europe: Emphasis on Free and Curated Content 

WikiFlix Launches in Germany 

Wikimedia Germany has launched WikiFlix, a free streaming platform offering over 2,500 freely licensed films without the need for login or subscription. Drawing from public domain sources via Wikidata, it aims to democratize film access outside commercial models. 

Sky's Now Revamped in Italy 

Sky has revamped its streaming platform Now with a new app rolling out across all devices in Italy. The update includes personal profiles, enhanced parental controls, a redesigned homepage with personalized recommendations, live TV integration, and a Restart feature for live broadcasts. 

Asia: Diversification of Streaming Models 

Astro Sooka Revamps in Malaysia 

Irdeto has partnered with Astro to revamp its Sooka streaming platform, delivering a fully upgraded user experience, enhanced security, and scalable technology. The transformation includes a modern UI, personalized content, and seamless performance across devices. 

Coupang Play Adds Free Ad-Supported Tier in South Korea 

Coupang Play will launch a free, ad-supported streaming tier beginning in June 2025. This initiative aims to broaden the audience and strengthen Coupang Play’s competitive position in the South Korean streaming market. 

Streaming Channel Trial Begins in Japan 

Japan Digital Serve is set to launch a trial of "Streaming Channel" via Milplus in June 2025. This curated streaming service combines regional cable TV content across genres like travel, food, and variety, designed for casual viewing without constant searching. 

Oceania: Embracing News-Focused Streaming 

Herald NOW Debuts in New Zealand 

The NZ Herald introduces Herald NOW, an advertising-supported streaming platform offering daily live news coverage hosted by Ryan Bridge. Combining real-time reporting with premium journalism, it aims to meet New Zealand’s growing demand for accessible, high-quality video content across web and YouTube. 

Global: Strategic Rebrands and New Ventures 

Max Rebrands Back to HBO Max 

Warner Bros. Discovery will rebrand Max back to HBO Max during the U.S. summer, aiming to reinforce its identity as a premium subscription streaming service centered on quality content. Consumer data indicated that the HBO name drives stronger recognition and trust in a crowded streaming market. 

América Vivo Launches for U.S. Hispanic Audiences 

Chile’s Canal 13 launches América Vivo, a free Spanish-language streaming platform with advertising, combining 13Go’s channels with top Latin American broadcasters. It targets U.S. Hispanic audiences via Canela.TV with free, live, culturally-driven content designed to expand regional reach and connect global viewers. 

Letterboxd Announces Video Store 

Letterboxd will launch a curated transaction platform called the Letterboxd Video Store, offering themed film rentals inspired by user enthusiasm, film festivals, and global cinema. This pay-per-view model connects audiences with overlooked and undistributed titles. 

GreatLakesSprints.TV Goes Live 

Great Lakes Super Sprints (GLSS) launched GreatLakesSprints.TV for the 2025 season, offering live and on-demand coverage of GLSS and select affiliated races. The platform aims to improve fan access and increase exposure for drivers and sponsors, reflecting GLSS’s commitment to expanding its digital presence. 

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About the services

Platform Essentials tracks news, updates, launches, discontinuations, and other changes related to entertainment platforms. Data collection and analysis leverage a combination of automated scraping techniques and manual validation by our analyst team. Information is updated on a weekly basis, which is why the dataset cited corresponds to the first quarter of 2025.