Salto: French TV Networks Launch New Streaming Service

A new streaming platform, Salto, has launched in France. While the service itself is recent, the organizations powering it are well-established. Salto represents a collaborative effort between TF1, France Télévisions, and M6 – three prominent television networks within the country.

These media companies previously operated individual applications offering live television broadcasts and on-demand content supported by advertising. Viewers could also find programming from these networks through their set-top boxes. However, Salto introduces a different approach to content delivery.

Currently, Salto functions primarily as an advertisement-free compilation of the existing applications from TF1, France Télévisions, and M6. The platform provides access to live broadcasts from a total of 19 distinct channels. Additionally, users can enjoy on-demand programming from all three networks without interruption from video advertisements.

The subscription cost is €6.99 per month. A slightly higher fee of €9.99 monthly allows for simultaneous viewing on two devices. For €12.99 per month, subscribers can utilize up to four screens concurrently. Salto has developed applications compatible with Android, Android TV, iOS, and tvOS, and is also accessible through a standard web browser.

This initial offering may not be sufficient to draw a large subscriber base. Therefore, Salto is progressively incorporating exclusive content to enhance its appeal. The platform is also designed to be a valuable resource for children's programming, featuring a dedicated section for young viewers.

Viewers can preview select television series prior to their original television air dates, including an adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” and the latest season of “Fargo.” The service also includes a selection of classic television programs, such as “Parks and Recreation” and “Seinfeld.”

Who is the target audience for Salto? The service may not be beneficial for individuals who primarily watch live television or already have access to on-demand content. Similarly, those with existing premium subscriptions, such as Canal+, may find Salto redundant.

However, Salto could be an attractive option for enthusiasts of reality television and daily serial dramas. For those not currently subscribed to any streaming services, it presents an affordable entry point to access a range of shows and films.