Paramount+ & Showtime Bundle: Stream More, Save Now
New Streaming Bundle Announced by ViacomCBS
ViacomCBS has unveiled a new streaming package for subscribers in the United States, providing access to both Paramount+ and Showtime. The cost of this bundle is $9.99 monthly for those who have subscribed to the ad-supported Paramount+ Essential plan.
Alternatively, subscribers who prefer an ad-free viewing experience, particularly when watching programs like the “iCarly” reboot, can opt for the $12.99 per month bundle which includes Showtime alongside Paramount+ Premium.
Premium Plan Features
The Paramount+ Premium plan offers several enhanced features. These include support for 4K resolution, High Dynamic Range (HDR), Dolby Vision, mobile downloads, and live streams of local CBS affiliates in 200 U.S. markets.
According to a company representative who spoke with TechCrunch, this promotional offer is valid through October 20th. Subscribers who sign up during this period will maintain their discounted rate even after the promotion concludes.
The combined cost of the bundle represents a 38% reduction compared to subscribing to Paramount+ and Showtime individually. Considering Showtime’s standalone price of $10.99 per month, this bundle may encourage current Showtime subscribers to explore Paramount+.
Paramount+’s content library includes popular shows such as “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” which recently achieved record-breaking success at the Emmy Awards, “Star Trek: The Original Series,” and “The Good Fight.”
Subscriber Growth and Service Evolution
ViacomCBS reported a significant increase in global streaming subscribers during the second quarter, adding 6.5 million users across its various platforms. This brings the total subscriber base to over 42 million.
The company attributes its 82% year-over-year growth in streaming revenue largely to the performance of Paramount+. The service underwent a rebranding in March, transitioning from CBS All Access to better reflect its expanded content offerings following the 2019 merger between Viacom and CBS.
Comparison to Other Bundles
In August 2020, Apple TV+ introduced a comparable bundle, combining CBS All Access Ad-Free and Showtime for $9.99 per month, in addition to the $4.99 monthly fee for Apple TV+.
Following the rebranding to Paramount+, existing Apple TV+ subscribers were permitted to continue with their existing plans. However, a payment processing issue in July raised concerns among customers regarding the potential expiration of the deal.
Previously, Paramount+ subscribers could access Showtime with a $3 discount. However, the current announcement presents a more advantageous offer for consumers.