FOX Networks Group (FNG) has debuted its much-anticipated streaming platform in Asia, kicking off a new era in the company’s 24-year history in the region.

FNG chose the Philippines as its launch pad for FOX+, showcasing the multi-genre service at a function in Manila on Tuesday, 7 March.

FOX+ in the Philippines is available through Cignal, PLDT and Smart. There is no stand-alone direct-to-consumer access.

The service costs Ps390/US$7.75 a month.

The branded app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store with an initial 30-day free trial.

The rest of the region will follow over the coming months. FNG has not confirmed a roll-out timetable.

The FOX+ app offers about 11,000 hours of original FOX, FOX+ exclusives and third-party programming, including TV series shown on the same day as the U.S., and movies shortly after theatrical release.

FOX+ will also stream Chinese series and movies, live sports and documentaries.

In a bold move clearly designed to drive take up, FNG said the window for titles would often be a full year before other subscription services.

Movie titles mentioned so far include Deadpool, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Revenant.

TV series include The Walking Dead, Homeland, The Young Pope and 24 Legacy.

FNG Asia president, Zubin Gandevia, said the new platform offered “a user experience that defines intuitive”.

“FOX has always been focused on providing the best stories, through TV shows, movies, documentaries and sports to its fans. FOX+ is the evolution of this philosophy and will upgrade the TV viewing experience by giving our viewers freedom and choices never seen before on any internet streaming service,” he said.

Published on 6 March 2017