Media Trends Executive

Media Deals

Hollywood and tech platforms are converging as studios chase new formats and talent while social apps add more premium programming.

Why it matters: The feedback loop is reshaping the definition of TV.

Driving the news: Traditional studios and streamers are embracing short-form and vertical video.

Netflix announced this week its redesigned mobile app will include vertical video.

Disney+ launched a vertical video feed on its app in March.

Amazon Web Services introduced tools to convert live and on-demand video into vertical formats. Fox Sports and NBCUniversal are partners.

At the same time, platforms are exploring traditional entertainment formats and devices.

YouTube acquired the global rights to the Oscars.

TikTok and Snapchat have hosted their own award shows for creators.

Zoom in: The convergence is also happening with talent and shows.

Hoorae Media, founded by actress Issa Rae, is partnering with TikTok on exclusive micro-series content.

Dhar Mann Studios, known for its massive YouTube audience, is working with Fox Entertainment on a slate of microdramas.

Netflix is leaning into creator formats by partnering with iHeartMedia to distribute its video podcasts, including "The Breakfast Club" and "My Favorite Murder."

Yes, but: Social apps also have positioned themselves as discovery engines for Hollywood, not just competitors.

A recent study from trade organization Cinema United and TikTok found films' box office performance rising alongside engagement on the app.

The bottom line: As TV starts to look more like TikTok and vice versa, the distinction between premium and creator content is becoming harder to define.

Go deeper: Media Trends Executive Platform Insights Report Q1 2026

Hollywood wants to be TikTok.  TikTok wants to be TV

Studios are embracing short-form video while platforms push into premium content.

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Hollywood wants to be TikTok. TikTok wants to be TV

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