The top 13 SVOD launches in 2015 – and more on the way

A couple of weeks ago, I noted the steep ramp-up in launches of over-the-top video services by both independent providers and large-scale operators such as Comcast and CenturyLink. The op-ed was a quick sketch of activity in the online video space. Afterward I sat down and listed, off the top of my head, all the OTT on-demand services that had launched or been announced this year.

The list ran off the first page and deep into a second page.

In just the past two months we've been treated to several announcements – some large, some barely noticed by the industry – of new over-the-top services and technologies. From OTT stalwarts like YouTube to traditional cable operators to wireless providers like T-Mobile and manufacturers like Ericsson, it looks like everyone is planting a stake in the online video game.

Below is a brief list of subscription video on demand (SVOD) services that have launched or been announced in 2015, both independently and through parent companies like Dish Network. That's it, just SVOD services. It doesn't include other types of OTT services such as advertising-supported video on demand (AVOD), which recently saw launches like NewsON, or hybrid services like Verizon's go90 or T-Mobile's Binge On, both ad-supported, mobile-first streaming services. Nor does it include recently announced white-label streaming services sold through operators, like Ericsson's Nuvu on-demand service or Channel Master TV's new streaming platform.

We've also left out cable companies that are testing or have launched OTT services, like Comcast's Stream service, because these may not be standalone services to which anyone can subscribe -- like Stream, they may ultimately only be available to pay-TV subscribers. But it is important to note that in addition to Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox Communications, Charter Communications, and IPTV provider CenturyLink are all testing or have limited launches of OTT skinny bundles.

Most of the launches and announcements are U.S.-based with the exception of a few significant ones such as Disney Life, which heralds a possible SVOD presence in the States sometime in the future or a significant competitive threat to other streaming services like Netflix.

Of course, the list may be somewhat longer than that. If we missed any, please let us know in the comments below. --Sam