By Andy Fry

RTL Group is launching a new SVOD service in Hungary called RTL+, The service will seek to differentiate itself by focusing primarily on local content. Currently, the plan is to launch 12 exclusive local productions on the platform over the next 12 months.

In parallel with the launch of RTL+, the company’s well-established linear channel RTL Klub will change its name to RTL. Existing free streaming products including RTL Most and RTL Most+ will be integrated into the new RTL+ offering.

Outlining the new structure, RTL Hungary managing director Gabriella Vidus said the ad-free service “will be the only platform in the market that specifically aims to provide local Hungarian content to its subscribers”. Emphasising the distinction between RTL+ and RTL, she stressed that the new service would not simply be lifting content already destined for transmission on the flagship channel: “We are not talking about our current linear shows, but about special content being prepared for this platform.”

Upcoming productions include a series about the life and death of local pop star Jimmy Zambo. In addition, acquired and archive content will flesh out the 5000-hour service.

Hungary is not the first place where RTL Group has deployed RTL+ as an SVOD streaming brand. A German version of RTL+ launched in November 2021.https://www.digitaltveurope.com