Xumo Ups Smart TV Reach, Content

Xumo, a startup that has built an ad-supported OTT video service initially focused on smart TV platforms, said its reach is approaching 60% of the U.S. following the launch of integrations on connected TVs from Magnavox, Philips, and Sanyo – brands made and sold by Funai Electric.

Xumo, which focuses on native integrations with those platforms, also has similar deals with LG Electronics, Panasonic and Vizio.

At this weeks’ NewFronts in New York, Xumo noted that Channel Plus will be natively integrated with LG’s line of 2016 smart TVs (including OLED and Super UHD models) running its webOS 3.0 platform.  Channel Plus is set for a summer 2016 debut.

Xumo claimed that the deals in place cover 60% of smart TVs shipped in the U.S.

Xumo’s said its feeding those platforms with  a lineup of nearly 80 free premium Internet channels. Announced content partners include Fail Army, Time Inc., Condé Nast Entertainment, Bloomberg, Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, BuzzFeed, PopSugar, Mitú Network, Machinima, TYT Network, Reuters, Field & Stream, PBS Digital Studios, Mashable, Network A, Fandor, Outside Television Shorts, Bonnier, Saveur, Cycle  World, and The Onion.

Outside Television is Xumo's first deal with a cable network, though focused on short-form content, while Fandor is Xumo's initial foray into long-form. 

Xumo, which also supports iOS and Android smartphones, is also looking to expand onto other TV-connected streaming platforms.