Sony’s Upcoming Digital TV Device Gets Influx Of Content From Viacom

Sony is making a more concerted effort to enter the digital TV market, and if its latest deal is any indication, it understands that content is king. Sony has struck an agreement with Viacom that will bring content from 22 of the media company’s networks to Sony’s upcoming cloud-based TV service.

This deal is particularly noteworthy because it is the first time Viacom has made its properties available on a video on-demand (VOD) service. Viacom is notably protective of its intellectual property, a tendency best illustrated by its series of lawsuits against YouTube. Cable channels owned by Viacom include Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and MTV, all of which will be available on Sony’s device at launch.

“Viacom always strives to create transformational opportunities that combine consumer value and technological innovation,” said Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman in a statement. “Given our young, tech-savvy audiences, our networks are essential for any new distribution platform, and we’re excited to be among the many programmers that will help power Sony’s new service and advance a new era for television.”

Sony first announced its cloud-based service in January 2014. The digital offering will support both live TV and VOD and will be available across multiple platforms, including Sony’s Playstation 4 console (which recently received its own over-the-top streaming device, Playstation TV.)

There are many digital TV options on the market, and Sony’s strategy for topping its competitors seems to revolve around an unbeatable library. In addition to Viacom’s properties, Sony will surely feature content from its own Crackle service, which provides viewers with movies and shows. Playstation owners and other Sony customers should start getting excited.