The streaming service Joyn is receiving an extensive update: With Joyn+, ProSiebenSat.1 is finally introducing a download function and expanding the offering with additional features. At the same time, however, the price for new customers is increasing. While functions such as offline playback and instant restart significantly increase convenience, the price adjustment ensures a new positioning in the streaming market.
- Download function for up to 10 contents with 30 days offline access
- New instant restart function for live TV content
- Price increases to 8.99 euros per month (with monthly cancellation)
- Annual subscription still cheaper at 6.99 euros per month
Joyn+ introduces download function and closes functional gap
With the introduction of the download function, Joyn+ is responding to a long-standing disadvantage compared to established streaming services. Users can now save up to ten pieces of content on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets and view them offline for up to 30 days. This function has been standard for many competitors for years and has been repeatedly requested by users.
The update is supplemented by the so-called instant restart function. This allows live TV programs to be started directly from the beginning without having to wait for a replay. According to the provider, this function is to be rolled out gradually on various platforms and operating systems, which indicates that integration has not yet been fully completed.
Overall, the innovations appear plausible and correspond to the current state of modern streaming services. In particular, the combination of live TV and on-demand functions will be further strengthened. It is also interesting to look back: the predecessor Maxdome already offered a download option, which shows that Joyn is catching up here rather than setting new standards.
Nevertheless, the update is an important step towards remaining competitive with other platforms. Mobile use and flexible playback options in particular are now among the most important criteria for streaming subscribers.
Price increase for Joyn+: ProSiebenSat.1’s new strategy
Parallel to the new functions, ProSiebenSat.1 is raising the price for Joyn+. In future, new customers will pay EUR 8.99 per month if they choose a monthly subscription. This brings the service more in line with the prices of established competitor offerings.
However, those who opt for an annual subscription can continue to use the previous price of 6.99 euros per month. Existing customers remain unaffected by the price increase as long as they do not cancel their existing subscription. This model is standard in the industry and is presumably intended to minimize incentives to switch.
It is striking that Joyn continues to rely heavily on its free, ad-financed area despite the expansion of the paid offering. This remains a central component of the platform and, according to the company, continues to record significant growth. The new premium functions should therefore be seen as a supplement rather than a complete change of strategy.
Overall, the adjustment seems logical: More features mean higher costs, while at the same time pressure from other streaming providers is increasing. The combination of free access and optional premium subscription could continue to prove to be a competitive advantage.
Conclusion
Joyn+ is developing noticeably with the new download function and additional features, but is also closing an important gap compared to the competition. The simultaneous price increase is plausible in view of the extended range of functions, but is likely to provoke discussion. The subscription is available immediately, at 8.99 euros per month or 6.99 euros per month in the annual model.
