Latest news with #AsianNation
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
India bans streaming apps you've never heard of — but millions watch
India has ordered the blocking of 25 streaming services — many with millions of viewers and even paying subscribers — for allegedly promoting 'obscene' content, in one of the South Asian nation's biggest digital crackdowns yet. The order affects lesser-known, but wildly popular services like Ullu and ALTT that cater to the country's mass-market appetite for adult and edgy entertainment. This week, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued directives to block access to websites and apps linked to 25 streaming services, citing provisions of the Information Technology Act of 2000 and the IT Rules of 2021, TechCrunch learned. The order came months after the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology raised concerns about mature content being streamed on these platforms without adequate safeguards. The Indian government contacted internet service providers and app stores, including Google Play and the Apple App Store, earlier this week to restrict these streaming services, a source privy to the matter told TechCrunch. Some of these services, especially the major ones with millions of subscribers, remained live at the time of filing this article. Google and Apple did not respond to requests for comment. The information and broadcasting minister also did not respond to an email sent Friday. Of the 25 streaming services, 10 offered in-app purchases through their apps on Google Play and the App Store, generating a cumulative $5.7 million since launch with nearly 105 million downloads, per the Appfigures data exclusively shared with TechCrunch. The wide gap between in-app purchases and downloads is primarily due to their low subscription costs — significantly lower than Netflix and other global platforms in India. Notably, some of these streaming services were either never listed on traditional app stores or had been removed earlier, and instead offered their apps as direct APK downloads. As of publication, some of these APK files were still accessible through their websites or third-party platforms. Earlier this month, Indian production company Balaji Telefilms, the parent of ALTT, disclosed that its streaming app generated ₹202.6 million ($2.3 million) in revenue by adding 1.06 million subscribers in 2025. ALTT's content was watched for more than 5.8 million hours, garnering 160 million annual views, the company said. ALTT's app was no longer available for download through Google Play and the App Store in India, and its website was inaccessible on most Indian ISPs at the time of filing this article. Balaji Telefilms did not respond to a request for comment on the ban. Ullu, another relatively prominent streaming service named by the Indian government, remained available via its app on the Indian Play Store, and its website was accessible as well. The service's iOS app, however, was not available for download from the Indian App Store. Ullu Digital, the parent company of Ullu, reported a net profit of ₹212.3 million ($2.5 million) for the financial year 2024, per its regulatory filing reviewed by TechCrunch. The company posted a revenue of ₹931.4 million ($11 million) and declared a net worth of ₹2.08 billion ($24 million). Ullu Digital did not respond to requests for comment. Alongside millions of dollars in subscription revenue, these streaming services were also attracting millions of global visits to their websites. Ullu saw nearly 10% year-over-year growth in worldwide traffic, reaching 1.9 million visits in June, while ALTT recorded over 130% growth to 776,400, per Similarweb. In India, Ullu recorded 18.9% year-over-year growth, reaching 1.8 million visits, while ALTT saw a 157.8% increase to 696,200 visits, Similarweb data shows. Importantly, this is not the first time the streaming business has seen a crackdown in India. Global platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, often face instances of censorship by the Indian government. However, even stricter actions are seen in cases of obscenity despite a lack of clarity on regulations, as watching explicit content featuring fully consensual interactions between adult actors in a private space is not a crime. In 2023, the then Indian information broadcasting minister warned streaming platforms not to serve abusive and obscene content. New Delhi has also blocked thousands of websites streaming pornographic content. On a plea to regulate sexually explicit content in April this year, India's Supreme Court also issued notices to streaming platforms and the Indian government. That said, curbing obscene content remains a challenge even for the Indian government. Smaller streaming services — like those targeted in this crackdown — often reappear under new names, apps, and domains. It is equally difficult for intermediaries like Google, Apple, and internet providers to fully block access, as these platforms often spread through alternative channels and use social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube to attract viewers.
TechCrunch
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- TechCrunch
India bans streaming apps you've never heard of — but millions watch
India has ordered the blocking of 25 streaming services — many with millions of viewers and even paying subscribers — for allegedly promoting 'obscene' content, in one of the South Asian nation's biggest digital crackdowns yet. The order affects lesser-known, but wildly popular services like Ullu and ALTT that cater to the country's mass-market appetite for adult and edgy entertainment. This week, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued directives to block access to websites and apps linked to 25 streaming services, citing provisions of the Information Technology Act of 2000 and the IT Rules of 2021, TechCrunch learned. The order came months after the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology raised concerns about mature content being streamed on these platforms without adequate safeguards. The Indian government contacted internet service providers and app stores, including Google Play and the Apple App Store earlier this week to restrict these streaming services, a source privy to the matter told TechCrunch. Some of these services, especially the major ones with millions of subscribers, remained live at the time of filing this article. Google and Apple did not respond to requests for comment. The information and broadcasting minister also did not respond to an email sent Friday. Of the 25 streaming services, 10 offered in-app purchases through their apps on Google Play and the App Store, generating a cumulative $5.7 million since launch with nearly 105 million downloads, per the Appfigures data exclusively shared with TechCrunch. The wide gap between in-app purchases and downloads is primarily due to their low subscription costs — significantly lower than Netflix and other global platforms in India. Techcrunch event Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They're here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don't miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $675 before prices rise. Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They're here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don't miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $675 before prices rise. San Francisco | REGISTER NOW Lifetime totals of banned streaming services from Google Play and Apple App Store Image Credits:Appfigures Notably, some of these streaming services were either never listed on traditional app stores or had been removed earlier, and instead offered their apps as direct APK downloads. As of publication, some of these APK files were still accessible through their websites or third-party platforms. Earlier this month, Indian production company Balaji Telefilms, the parent of ALTT, disclosed that its streaming app generated ₹202.6 million ($2.3 million) in revenue by adding 1.06 million subscribers in 2025. ALTT's content was watched for more than 5.8 million hours, garnering 160 million annual views, the company said. ALTT's app was no longer available for download through Google Play and the App Store in India, and its website was inaccessible on most Indian ISPs at the time of filing this article. Balaji Telefilms did not respond to a request for comment on the ban. Ullu, another relatively prominent streaming service named by the Indian government, remained available via its app on the Indian Play Store, and its website was accessible as well. The service's iOS app, however, was not available for download from the Indian App Store. Ullu Digital, the parent company of Ullu, reported a net profit of ₹212.3 million ($2.5 million) for the financial year 2024, per its regulatory filing reviewed by TechCrunch. The company posted a revenue of ₹931.4 million ($11 million) and declared a net worth of ₹2.08 billion ($24 million). Ullu Digital did not respond to requests for comment. Alongside millions of dollars in subscription revenue, these streaming services were also attracting millions of global visits to their websites. Image Credits:SimilarWeb Ullu saw nearly 10% year-over-year growth in worldwide traffic, reaching 1.9 million visits in June, while ALTT recorded over 130% growth to 776,400, per SimilarWeb. In India, Ullu recorded 18.9% year-over-year growth, reaching 1.8 million visits, while ALTT saw a 157.8% increase to 696,200 visits, SimilarWeb data shows. Image Credits:SimilarWeb Importantly, this is not the first time the streaming business has seen a crackdown in India. Global platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Netflix often face instances of censorship by the Indian government. However, even stricter actions are seen in cases of obscenity despite a lack of clarity on regulations, as watching explicit content featuring fully consensual interactions between adult actors in a private space is not a crime. In 2023, the then Indian information broadcasting minister warned streaming platforms not to serve abusive and obscene content. New Delhi has also blocked thousands of websites streaming pornographic content. On a plea to regulate sexually explicit content in April this year, India's Supreme Court also issued notices to streaming platforms and the Indian government. That said, curbing obscene content remains a challenge even for the Indian government. Smaller streaming services — like those targeted in this crackdown — often reappear under new names, apps, and domains. It is equally difficult for intermediaries like Google, Apple, and internet providers to fully block access, as these platforms often spread through alternative channels and use social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube to attract viewers.
Bloomberg
17-07-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
WeWork India Is Said to Begin Marketing $407 Million IPO
WeWork India Management Ltd. began marketing an initial public offering in the South Asian nation to raise as much as 35 billion rupees ($407 million), according to people familiar with the matter. The workspace provider aims to launch its IPO in August, the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private. The IPO will comprise the sale of as many as 43.75 million shares, according to an exchange filing.
Miami Herald
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Gold House Announces New Rising Artists Selected for Gold Music Accelerator With Partners Spotify & Asian Nation
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / April 30, 2025 / Gold House, the home of collective power where leaders unite to forge culture, with support from the most popular audio streaming subscription service Spotify and Live Nation's employee-led resource group Asian Nation, is proud to announce the 2025 cohort of the Gold Music Accelerator. A transformative program designed to elevate rising Asian diasporic music artists, this year's selected artists - Snow Wife, Chance Emerson, and Luna Li - will gain opportunities to propel their careers to the next level. The Gold Music Accelerator provides artists with industry-defining resources, including masterclasses led by Spotify and Live Nation executives to help navigate the business of music, access to showcase opportunities in front of industry leaders, and marketing and promotional support. Participants will also have the chance to record their own Spotify Singles, expanding their reach to new audiences. "As a global platform dedicated to music discovery, Spotify is committed to supporting emerging artists and ensuring all voices are heard. The Gold Music Accelerator provides a crucial platform for Asian Pacific artists to access knowledge, tools, and networks that help them thrive. Now in our fourth year partnering with Gold House, we continue to champion Asian Pacific talent and create spaces for them to flourish," said Sulinna Ong, Spotify's Global Head of Editorial. Spotify makes it easier to discover Asian Pacific talent through its editorial playlists like Gold Beats and Jasmine, which spotlight emerging Asian Pacific musicians and expand their reach globally. A newly conducted study by Live Nation called Asian Audiences Amplified found that 73% live music goers report wanting to see Asian artists and performers, but only 25% of these events feature AAPI talent, suggesting a significant opportunity for artists and concert goers alike. Through the Accelerator, Asian Nation members and Live Nation executives will provide hands-on performance development and insights into live performance and touring and host a dedicated industry showcase for the three artists in Los Angeles this summer. "Asian Pacific artists have massive untapped potential, not just within their own communities but across global audiences hungry for new voices," said Pravir Samtani, co-chair of Live Nation's Asian Nation. "This program provides artists with access to industry contacts, mentorship, and visibility, helping them refine their artistry and stage presence." An esteemed panel of industry professionals evaluated candidates based on musical talent, artistic vision, and how their cultural identity informs their work. The committee included Thuy, the first program alumna to join as a judge; musician Eric Nam; and designer Humberto Leon - who recently served as creative director of HYBE label group KATSEYE - alongside Ong and other influential music executives dedicated to fostering new talent. About the Artists: Snow Wife: Emily Snow began her artistic journey as a professional dancer before transitioning to music. Signed to publishing company Prescription Songs and Amigo Records under Republic Records, Snow Wife serves up slick, sexy, genre-bending music. Her breakout single "American Horror Show" has garnered significant attention on social media Emerson: Chance Emerson grew up between Hong Kong and Maine and recorded his first EP in the attic of his high school's music building. His music forges a compelling brand of melodic "Asian-Americana" folk-rock. A recipient of the prestigious BMI John Lennon Songwriting Award, Chance recently performed at Newport Folk Festival and Li: Hannah Bussiere Kim, known professionally as Luna Li, is a Korean-Canadian singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer known for weaving baroque-pop with jazz flutes and gritty riffs. Though she cut her teeth in Toronto's live music scene, she won over a new legion of fans during the pandemic by posting solo bedroom jams that showcased her classical training and multi-instrumental abilities. Past participants have seen significant growth in their careers following the program. "The Gold Music Accelerator gave me the confidence and motivation to keep going. It was such a breath of fresh air to be recognized and supported. Since being a part of the program, I've released two projects and toured all around the world. Being surrounded by people who looked like me and shared my experiences made me proud to be an Asian artist and inspired me to keep pushing my culture forward," said Thuy. "This program is about more than just visibility - it's about building a lasting infrastructure for Asian diasporic artists to succeed," said Christine Yi, General Manager of Gold House Futures. "Asian Nation and Spotify have been instrumental in providing key access and opportunities, and we are thrilled to see much more of Snow Wife, Chance Emerson, and Luna Li." For more information about the Gold Music Accelerator, visit About Gold House Gold House is the home of collective power where leaders unite to forge culture. We foster spaces where established and emerging makers gather to amplify their impact. We shape public perceptions by consulting on, investing in, and marketing society-defining media properties. We create new economies by backing the boldest entrepreneurs and scaling them internationally. By fueling unity, visibility, and economic mobility, success becomes our shared world. With roots in Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, and Singapore, Gold House operates with the heart of a nonprofit and the scale of a world-class enterprise. We don't just change culture - we make it. About Spotify Since its launch in 2008, Spotify has revolutionized music listening. Our move into podcasting brought innovation and a new generation of listeners to the medium. In 2022, we took the next leap, entering the fast-growing audiobook market - continuing to shape the future of audio. Today, more listeners than ever can discover, manage and enjoy over 100 million tracks, 6.5 million podcast titles, and 350,000 audiobooks a la carte on Spotify. We are the world's most popular audio streaming subscription service with more than 675 million users, including 263 million subscribers in more than 180 markets. About Live NationLive Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. For additional information, visit Contact Information Rose Yan VP of Marketingpress@ SOURCE: Gold House press release
