Substack Tests TV App in Beta Phase
The digital newsletters platform Substack has begun testing a new application designed for televisions. This tool, which for now only works on Apple TV devices, aims to bring the newsletter reading experience to the home's main screen. The company argues that this format allows for exploring content in a more immersive and relaxed way. This move arises from detecting that more people prefer to consume detailed analysis directly from their sofa. 📺
Interface Focused on Thematic Channels
The application displays the newsletters to which the user is subscribed, but organizes them into channels according to their theme, mimicking the look of classic television programming. Users can scroll through these channels to find new authors or the latest episodes of their favorite publications. Substack has worked to make the text clear on large screens, using generous font sizes and smooth scrolling. Additionally, integrating video and audio playback is a key feature of the app.
Main Features of the App:- Organizes subscribed newsletters into a channel guide by themes.
- Facilitates discovering creators and new content through intuitive navigation.
- Prioritizes readability with wide typography and smooth movement in the interface.
The goal is to compete for the user's attention in a space, the living room entertainment one, traditionally dominated by major streaming platforms.
A Business Model Without Advertising
The company retains its subscription-based model and does not incorporate ads in this new application. Writers using Substack can choose whether their content appears in the TV app, which could help them reach a wider audience. For Substack, this is a logical step to grow its ecosystem beyond email.
Key Aspects of the Model:- Maintains the direct payment system to creators, without intermediate advertising.
- Authors decide to participate and expose their newsletters on the TV platform.
- Seeks to expand its presence in the competitive home entertainment environment.
A New Way to Consume Analysis
This initiative represents a change in how one can interact with in-depth content. Instead of reading on a small screen, users now have the option to view that same analysis on their television, combining the comfort of the living room with the format of specialized newsletters. It is a bet on capturing eyes in a territory dominated by streaming services, offering a text- and analysis-centered alternative. 🛋️