CNN.com will soon charge for its content
CNN is set to join the ranks of publications like The New Yorker and The Wall Street Journal by introducing a subscription paywall for some of its digital content starting next month. This move comes as the media giant seeks to diversify its revenue streams amid a decline in traditional cable TV viewership.
According to The New York Times, CNN will implement a “metered” paywall in early October, limiting frequent readers to a certain number of free articles before requiring a paid subscription for continued access. While the exact subscription price remains undisclosed, sources suggest it will initially be “an inexpensive offering to gauge customer demand.”
This shift follows CNN’s earlier experiment with a “registration wall,” prompting readers to provide their email address to access certain articles. The paywall initiative was hinted at in July during a company restructuring, with CNN Chairman Mark Thompson outlining plans to establish a digital subscription business with the goal of generating “more than a billion dollars in revenue.”
As one of the most visited news website in the US, attracting over 440 million visits per month, CNN’s foray into subscription models could significantly impact the digital media landscape. The success of this venture will likely depend on striking a balance between attracting paying subscribers and maintaining its wide online reach.
This move reflects a broader trend in the media industry, with many publications adopting subscription models to navigate the challenges posed by evolving consumer habits and declining advertising revenue. Whether CNN’s gamble will pay off remains to be seen, but it signifies a significant step in the company’s strategy to adapt and thrive in the digital age.
Via: Cord Cutters News
