Factual vets launch CuriosityStream OTT rival

Another documentary-focused over-the-top service is hitting the video streaming market.

XiveTV promises more than 2,000 hours of factual programming via platforms such as Hulu, YouTube, Amazon and iOS and Android apps.

Its launch yesterday preceded the entrance of John Hendricks’ CuriosityStream SVOD platform, which goes live on March 18.

Xive – pronounced ‘zive’ – is billing itself as the “first internet-based documentary network”.

Alliant Content – a Washington-based factual programming and distribution firm that works with the likes of ZDF Enterprises, DRG, TVF International, NHNZ, Sky Vision and Terranoa – owns the platform.

Indeed, programming from the likes of ITV Studios, Sky Vision, DRG and Cineflix Rights is offered through the platform following a series of content deals.

Primarily targeting an audience of 25-34s, Xive’s programming is searchable by topic and shareable via social media platforms, with shows such as Cosmic Journeys, Tornado Chasers, Psychic Investigator and Austin Stevens Adventures offered at launch.

Behind the platform are co-founders Greg Diefenbach and Thomas Lucas, who have worked in factual development, production, funding and distribution for more than two decades.

Diefenbach has helped fund projects for the likes of indie filmmakers Ken Burns and counts PBS’ Empires and National Geographic Channel’s Explorer as credits, while Lucas created YouTube space video channel SpaceRip and worked on NOVA’s Monster of the Milky Way.

Lucas said the platform was “dedicated to serving people who crave expertly produced, thought-provoking content”.

The factual industry, which has slower to tap into on-demand than the drama and kids sectors, welcomed Xive’s launch.

“XiveTV is very interesting – maybe even a game-changer in our industry,” said Brent Montgomery, CEO of ITVS-owned factual production giant Leftfield Entertainment. “Everyone wants TV to be searchable, everyone wants TV to be mobile. It’s where TV is going.”

“The XiveTV announcement shows just how fast the world of TV is changing,” said Patrick Roberts, senior VP of international sales for DRG. “We are delighted to see our content on the first dedicated general documentary service in the SVOD/AVOD space.”