Telstra will stop live streaming AFL and NRL games, and will instead offer customers access to Foxtel’s Kayo app.
As part of the long-term deal between the two companies, Telstra’s AFL and NRL LIVE Apps will continue to run but will only offer features such as match replays, live scores, highlights and stats.
For users wanting to live stream matches, Telstra, which owns 35% of Foxtel, is offering Live Pass customers a discounted Kayo Basic subscription for $5 a month, usually $25 a month, for 12 months. All other Telstra customers can access a basic Kayo subscription for $15 a month for a year.
Previously, Telstra customers received Live Pass access for free, but were limited to streaming one sport to their mobile or tablet device. Live Pass, which has been offering live games on mobile since 2014, has reached more than three million subscribers.
“We have always been committed to delivering fans the best experience possible across our range of products and services, and sports is a key part of our strategy and offering,” says Telstra CEO Andrew Penn.
“While Live Pass has provided a great experience for our customers over time, Kayo has quickly become the premium sports streaming service in Australia, and we’re excited to provide this exclusive offer to our customers, giving them the chance to watch a wider range of sports on their choice of screen.”
Kayo subscriptions had a steady growth last year with the resumption of the NRL and AFL season. As of September 30 last year, there were 681,000 Kayo subscribers, 644,000 paying, compared to 430,000 subscribers, 364,000 paying, the prior year.
“We have a great long-term relationship with Telstra and as our company’s strategies evolve, we are finding new ways to work together,” says Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany.
“We have created a great product in Kayo, streaming 50 sports live including the AFL and NRL action, it’s exciting for Kayo to be endorsed for Live Pass customers by Telstra.”
Last year, following the disruption of COVID-19, broadcasters renegotiated the rights to broadcast the NRL and AFL with significant cost savings.
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