*Update: Quibi has shut down and is no longer in operation.
Adding on to the list of new streaming services is Quibi, a new and mobile-only streaming service. Launching in the US on April 6th, 2020, Quibi boasts high-quality content that’s only available for viewing on mobile.
What is Quibi?
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Quibi, short for Quick Bites, is founded by former Disney chairman and DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, as well as former eBay and Hewlett Packard CEO Meg Whitman. The company has managed to secure more than $1B worth in funding from huge names such as The Walt Disney Company, NBC Universal, Sony Pictures and Alibaba Group.
As suggested by its name, each episode from a Quibi series will run approximately for 4 – 10 minutes, perfect for anyone on-the-go.
The Turnstyle Feature
What makes Quibi unique is a brand-new user experience when it comes to streaming. The turnstyle feature will allow users to switch between landscape and portrait modes seamlessly (without the grey bars at the side).
This allows the user to decide his/her own viewing experience and further enhances the storytelling in each show.
Some shows, such as the thriller series ‘Wireless’ which will incorporate the Turnstyle feature to allow viewers to experience a different point of view. Switching from landscape to portrait mode will allow viewers to see what the main character is seeing on their phone.
More interesting features include using the viewers’ location to determine if they’re eligible to watch a show. Quibi’s show – ‘After Dark’ by Steven Spielberg is only available for viewing after sunset.
Some Upcoming Shows from Quibi
Quibi promises three hours worth of new content every day with an extensive list of platform exclusives and originals ranging from Dramas to Reality TV. While their content is made for the small screen, the production value for Quibi shows is reportedly Hollywood grade.
Killing Zac Efron
Filming this almost killed Zac Efron. It was reported that the star contracted a bacterial infection in Papua New Guinea while filming and was rushed to the hospital. The actor ventures deep into the jungles seeking adventure. Perfect for those who love watching Bear Grylls.
Slugfest
Marvel and DC fans take note: ‘Avengers: Endgame’ directors Joe and Anthony Russo will be producing a docuseries about the Marvel vs DC rivalry.
Time to find out who’s better – Marvel or DC?
Floored
A competitive dance show with dancers dancing on a floor that tilts, drops, shakes and spins to the music. Hosted by Youtube star Liza Koshy, we can’t wait to see the hilarious reactions on the dancers’ faces.
Pricing
Quibi will have two pricing options for US viewers. US$4.99 a month for access to the shows on Quibi, but with ads. An ad-free experience will set you back $7.99 a month.
Will it be available in Singapore?
While we are unsure if Quibi will be launched internationally, a UK and Australia release seem to be in the talks.
While Quibi is described to be half Hollywood and half Silicon Valley, we wonder if the gimmick of being able to switch from landscape to portrait orientation seamlessly be a temporary fad or will this launch the industry into a new era of television?
What are your thoughts?
*Follow MiddleClass.sg on Facebook and Instagram for more food, travel and trending stories!
