In spite of multiple attempts to launch a streaming service, CNN doesn’t appear to have found its streaming footing just yet. CNN+, for example, launched in March of 2022 and closed down again in April 2022. Yes, CNN+ shut down just one month after it launched.
Since then, a ‘CNN Max’ service has gone live on the Max streaming platform. Initially designed to be a paid add-on to the Max service, CNN Max has since found itself relegated to being just another benefit of Max’s ad-free plans.
In 2025, CNN is now preparing to launch another potential streaming solution.
Due to go live later in the fall, the new service also appears to be more of an add-on than a separate service. According to CNN, the video service is due to become available as part of CNN’s new All Access subscription service tier.
Subscribers will get access to somewhat of a traditional CNN cable experience, including access to a selection of live channels, as well as catch-up features and video-on-demand programming.
“CNN has been leading and innovating in video-led journalism since its inception, and the expansion of our subscription offering to include streaming embodies that pioneering spirit,” said Alex MacCallum, Executive Vice President, Digital Products and Services.
It also looks like the video streaming service will arrive with fairly wide device support, as it will be available across all platforms, including connected TVs, the CNN mobile app, and CNN.com
In spite of the launch of new service, the company says its existing video options won’t be affected. In other words, not only will the CNN pay-tv linear channel continue to exist, but the CNN Max service will continue to be available on Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max streaming platform.
“We’re giving audiences an even more convenient way to access CNN’s trusted reporting and original programming—brought together in one intuitive, easy-to-use experience,” added MacCallum.
For those that already get CNN as part of their live TV package, they will also be able to access the new streaming service once it goes live later this year, at no additional cost.
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