Within the last week, WWE Network sent out an email to it’s subscribers in which they announced that their streaming service will be undergoing a major update, it’s first major UI upgrade since it debuted back i 2014, which will be clearly visible on the app.
While the new interface viewers are seeing a slightly improved search engine, but one that will be more visually pleasing to the eye, highlighted by a new Superstars section that will let you find your favorite WWE wrestler from today, Alumni, Hall of Fame, NXT, RAW, Smackdown, 205 Live, and more.
Furthermore, the lead in video cut outlining the program rating that would kickoff any and all content on the app is no longer there, with all of that information now tucked away in the show description. A subtle change, but a nice one nonetheless.
Additionally, if you are watching a specific event (not live) you will now have the option to simply skip a match you’re not interested in watching, making it much easier to get to the content you specifically want to see without having to fast forward and/or rewind several times to cue up the next match.
The biggest takeaway is what is on the horizon for the network.
Over the next few months, WWE Network will be introducing a tiered system which will include a free tier with limited WWE programming. There will also be a VIP tier which will include “additional programming similar to the EVOLVE 10th anniversary celebration that WWE Network streamed earlier this month.”
The goal is to provide a new Netflix-like experience to the app, and keep content more organized specifically.
With WWE now looking to include content from other promotions, those they have relationships with such as EVOLVE, it opens up a new potential universe of possibilities that could create a more robust content selection, all from promotions outside of WWE, which would bring more indie wrestling content to WWE’s app.