CNN has implemented a paywall and is asking some of its users to pay $3.99 per month to access its content. The news website announced this on Tuesday in order to create a digital source of income.
The move comes at a time when several publications such as The New York Times have already successfully launched subscription models that have led to an increase in subscriber numbers.
As cable television ratings and revenue dwindle, news organizations like CNN are trying to make money from digital media to offset the decline of television, which has been a major source of revenue.
“Starting today, we’re asking users in the United States to pay a small recurring fee for unlimited access to CNN.com’s premium stories,” said Alex MacCallum, executive vice president of digital products and services at CNN.
The launch of the subscription is in line with CNN CEO Mark Thompson’s plans to transform the company from a television-focused organization to a multiplatform news company by strengthening its digital business.
CNN, which is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, will only offer a subscription once users have read a certain number of free articles per month, MacCallum said.
Subscribers will have access to CNN articles and other content, including original documentaries and exclusive election coverage. They will also have access to a daily curated selection of news and see fewer advertisements, the company said.
The paid subscription is a preliminary form and will be expanded over time to meet users’ needs, CNN said.
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