The Vertical Revolution: Can Epis Bridge the Gap Between Traditional TV and Mobile?

RoseBerry’s latest entrant into the crowded streaming space is Epis, a mobile-first global streaming service that promises to bring premium television content to the world of vertical video. With over 100 titles launching simultaneously, including adaptations from major traditional TV players like Fremantle and BBC, Epis aims to occupy a niche between traditional TV and short-form microdramas dominating platforms like ReelShort and DramaBox.

At its core, Epis is an exercise in adaptability. By repurposing existing TV formats for vertical viewing on mobile devices, RoseBerry leverages the expertise of established producers while staying ahead of the curve. The service’s emphasis on “TV quality” productions sets it apart from other apps focused on quick-fix entertainment.

The concept of vertical video has been gaining traction for years but remains a challenge to adopt among mainstream streaming services. Epis’s co-founder and CEO Guy Hameiri believes that audiences have changed their consumption habits yet still crave great stories. By offering a curated service with advanced technology and world-class creative talent, RoseBerry aims to meet this demand.

However, the question is whether premium vertical entertainment can truly compete with established industry giants like Netflix and Disney+. Epis’s business model relies on partnerships with traditional TV players like Fremantle and Banijay, which may raise concerns about content ownership and control. Can Epis maintain its independence in a market dominated by behemoths or will it become another cog in their machinery?

One potential advantage that Epis has is its willingness to experiment with new formats and monetization models. By positioning itself as a testing ground for vertical content, RoseBerry can gather valuable audience data and intelligence, which could inform future business decisions. This approach may also provide a safeguard against traditional TV production’s high costs and unpredictable returns.

The appointment of Gidon Katz to Epis’s advisory board is another strategic move that highlights RoseBerry’s ambition. As a veteran in the streaming space, having been involved in the launch of Peacock and Now TV, Katz brings invaluable expertise to the table. His presence suggests that Epis is serious about establishing itself as a major player in the industry.

Ultimately, the success of Epis will depend on its ability to adapt to changing audience preferences while maintaining the quality and depth expected from premium television content. If it can strike this balance, it may just prove that vertical video has more to offer than meets the eye. Traditional TV players would do well to take note: innovation and experimentation are what set true winners apart.

By embracing the possibilities of vertical video, RoseBerry is taking a risk on premium entertainment in an era where viewers increasingly crave bite-sized content. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: the future of television production has never looked more uncertain – and more exciting.