BBC, ITV and Channel 4 are 'in talks to launch a streaming service that will compete with Netflix' | London Evening Standard

BBC, ITV and Channel 4 are 'in talks to launch a streaming service that will compete with Netflix'It is thought the mainstream broadcasters are seeking to compete with streaming platformsCompetition: It has been reported that the broadcasters will join forces for a new serviceAnthony Devlin/PA Wire/PA Images

Mainstream broadcasters the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 have reportedly held talks with a view to joining forces to create a British streaming service to compete with Netflix and Amazon in the UK.

The early-stage talks are said to involve NBC Universal in plans to rival streaming giants.

A source told The Guardian: “All options are open, they are early conversations and no direction is firm yet.

“But they know a video-on-demand platform play would be a true defence for the UK creative industries.”

Netflix: The streaming subscription service enjoys success in the UK freestocks.org/Unsplash

A second insider told the publication that the service was likely to be a “public service broadcaster domestic competitor to Netflix”.

It is also understood that BBC Studios are on board, wanting to use iPlayer as a “master brand” instead of ITV Hub or All 4.

The proposals resemble Project Kangaroo, blocked in 2009, that saw the trio of then-terrestrial broadcasters try to launch a video-on-demand service but was blocked by the competition regulator.

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Last year, BBC and ITV launched a streaming service in the US – since expanded to Canada – called BritBox, but Channel 4 never got involved and the platform failed to have a British launch.

BBC and Channel 4 declined to comment when contacted by Standard Online. ITV has been contacted.