URGENT UPDATE: Fetch TV has just announced significant changes, introducing six new channels and raising subscription prices for the first time since 2021. Effective from September 1, 2023, this expansion comes as the Australian pay-TV provider integrates the popular Crunchyroll anime streaming service into its offerings.
The new channels include children’s programming with Moonbug, military history through Declassified, and four dedicated Stingray music channels. This move aims to enhance family entertainment options but comes with a price increase that affects all premium channel packages.
Subscribers will now see their monthly fees for the Vibe, Knowledge, Variety, and Kids packs rise to A$7.99, while the Ultimate Pack will increase to A$24.99. The Entertainment Pack is set at A$17.99, and the Movie Box remains affordable at A$2.99 per month. This pricing change has sparked mixed reactions from customers, who express disappointment over the increases coinciding with what some see as underwhelming channel additions.
The Crunchyroll integration is particularly noteworthy, providing access to over 39,000 anime episodes including hits like One Piece and My Hero Academia. However, accessing this content will require a separate subscription fee ranging from A$10.99 to A$13.99 per month.
Fetch TV CEO Dominic Arena stated, “This investment in world-class content reflects our commitment to delivering the best value and broadest entertainment for Australian households.” Yet, customer feedback reveals skepticism about the value of the new music-heavy channels, with some questioning the necessity of additional streaming music services.
Despite the price increases, Fetch TV has maintained a relatively stable pricing strategy over the past four years, contrasting sharply with frequent hikes from major competitors such as Netflix and Disney+. Industry analysts suggest that Fetch’s pricing strategy reflects its intent to provide an alternative to purely streaming-based services, combining traditional cable television with on-demand options.
The addition of the Moonbug channel is a significant milestone, marking its debut on Australian television. Nicolas Eglau, Managing Director of Moonbug Entertainment, expressed excitement, saying, “We’re thrilled to be bringing the very first Moonbug Channel to Australia, enabling us to share the fun, music, and stories that kids already love with even more families.”
Moreover, the Crunchyroll partnership addresses the growing anime fanbase in Australia. Terry Li, EVP of Emerging Businesses at Crunchyroll, noted, “Australia is home to one of the most passionate anime communities in the world, and with Fetch, we’re making it easier than ever for fans here to enjoy the very best of Japan straight into their living rooms.”
Existing subscribers will see these pricing changes reflected in their first billing cycle on or after September 1, with potential pro-rata charges depending on billing timing. Customers can manage their subscriptions directly through their Fetch device menu.
As Fetch TV aims to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive market, the channel expansions and price adjustments represent a bold move to attract and retain viewers in a landscape dominated by streaming giants. The company is keen on promoting its unique value proposition, combining traditional cable programming with modern streaming capabilities.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
