Free Streaming Service STIRR Revamped with New Content and AI-Powered Search
STIRR, the ad-supported streaming service previously owned by Sinclair Broadcasting Group, is set for a major makeover under new parent company Thinking Media. The streaming platform plans to triple its on-demand content library and utilize artificial intelligence to enhance search functionality. Although STIRR had significantly scaled down its live channels, Thinking Media President Scott Schlichter expressed the company’s commitment to expanding the offering. STIRR aims to strike new content licensing deals and anticipates rolling out programming starting in March.
Presently, STIRR offers a limited selection of lesser-known shows and movies. While it features a few categories such as horror, documentaries, sports, and dramas, the content might not be instantly recognizable to viewers. However, Thinking Media CEO Todd Carter has emphasized the platform’s goal to cater to a broad range of smaller, niche-oriented audiences.
In June, STIRR plans to introduce additional categories including travel, fitness, cooking, automotive, technology, fashion, home improvement, gaming, and educational content. This move aligns with the rising popularity of free ad-supported platforms as more individuals opt to reduce their paid streaming subscriptions and explore cost-efficient alternatives. Content availability and device compatibility vary across different streaming services. STIRR seeks to expand its reach by launching on Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Tizen (which powers Samsung TVs) once the app transitions from Sinclair Broadcasting Group to Thinking Media’s control. The app has already been made available on Apple TV, iOS, and Android devices.
Setting itself apart from competitors, STIRR will introduce a feature called Key Video Moments, which syncs a user’s smartphone searches with the app. This innovation aims to make it convenient for viewers to look up relevant information, like recipes, while watching specific shows and even share their findings on social media.
Thinking Media’s President highlights the potential for STIRR to serve as a laboratory for TV web innovation, building upon the foundation laid by Sinclair Broadcasting Group and taking it to the next level.
Thinking Media is also in the process of negotiating international licenses for STIRR’s expansion. The streaming service is scheduled for launch in the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland in the first half of 2024. Additionally, STIRR plans to introduce Spanish-language content in Latin America.
As the landscape of streaming services continues to evolve, STIRR’s revamp demonstrates the platform’s efforts to cater to diverse viewer interests while leveraging technological advancements. By offering a range of niche-oriented content and implementing AI-powered search, STIRR aims to position itself as a compelling option in the increasingly competitive streaming market.
