CNN has implemented a paywall and is now charging some users $3.99 per month to access its digital content. This initiative is part of CNN’s strategy to create a new revenue stream from its online platform. In doing so, the news channel is following the successful example of other publications such as the New York Times, which already benefit from subscription models.
As traditional cable television audiences shrink and revenue declines, CNN and other news organizations are looking for ways to offset those losses through digital media. “Starting today, we’re asking users in the United States to pay a small monthly fee for unlimited access to CNN.com’s premium stories,” said Alex MacCallum, CNN’s executive vice president of digital products and services.
The subscription requirement takes effect once readers in the USA have reached a certain number of free articles per month. CNN, a subsidiary of Warner Bros Discovery (NASDAQ:), aims to evolve from a TV-centric company into a diverse, cross-platform news provider. This vision is supported by CNN CEO Mark Thompson, who wants to strengthen the company’s digital presence.
Subscribers get access to a wide range of content, including exclusive documentaries, comprehensive election coverage and a daily curated news selection. Another advantage: subscribers see significantly fewer advertisements. CNN emphasizes that this payment model is still in its early stages and will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of audiences.
Reuters contributed to this article.
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