PBS Kids, the children's arm of the American public channel that has produced classic shows like Sesame Street and Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, has shown a willingness to keep up with the latest technology with the PBS Plug & Play gadget. The device is a media streamer, like the Roku Streaming Stick, but it instead focuses specifically on content for kids.
Looking at the PBS Plug & Play, it's immediately clear that it's a device for kids. The simple remote controller comes in a bright green with cartoonish buttons, and the HDMI dongle itself is decked out with spinning toy car wheels. That physical aspect is more of an add-on, though, as the device is capable of streaming PBS Kids' live 24/7 channel when connected to Wi-Fi. It can also store up to 16 gigabytes of entertainment locally when Wi-Fi isn't an option.
Toddler-Friendly Streaming Sticks
The PBS Plug & Play is an HDMI Dongle for Streaming Kids Shows
Trend Themes
1. Kid-friendly Media Streaming Devices - As more parents look to digital media for entertainment, there is a wide-open opportunity to create easy-to-use devices specifically tailored for children's content consumption.
2. 24/7 Live Streaming Services - Live streaming services that offer around-the-clock content delivery provide a disruptive opportunity to reach an untapped market of viewers who want a constant stream of engaging content.
3. Localized Storage for On-the-go Viewing - As streaming services become more mobile, offering devices that allow for offline viewing by storing content on the device provides a disruptive innovation to attract users without always requiring an internet connection.
Industry Implications
1. Children's Entertainment - The children's entertainment industry has an opportunity to create their own streaming devices, or to partner with developers, to provide a safe and secure platform for children's content that features parental controls and limits.
2. Media Streaming Devices - The media streaming device industry could focus on creating customizable and affordable media streaming devices that are tailored toward kiddie content and can be integrated into a family streaming experience.
3. Live Streaming Services - The live streaming service industry can capitalize on providing constant streaming services that can appeal to kids and provide family-friendly content such as sports, cartoons, music, and more.