In a world of TikTok’s, disappearing Snapchats and Instagram videos — it’s no surprise that a “Quick Bites” streaming service was next on the agenda.
Backed by entertainment billionaire Jeffrey Katzenberg (co-founder and former ceo of DreamWorks), “Quibi” — pronounced KWIH-bee — is a service all about short videos with a big impact.
But before you question whether we really needed yet another streaming service to add to a multitude of offerings like Netflix, Stan, AppleTV Plus, Disney+, Amazon Prime and iView, this could very well be the sort of variety that people staying at home, have been looking for.
In an interview with the New York Times, CEO Meg Whitman said that Quibi would be a very welcome thing in many households during the global coronavirus pandemic.
“Think about how often you use your phone when you’re homebound. People who are home with their children would really like a 10-minute break,” she said.
In fact, you can use the service in-between emails, work meetings, household chores and even as a quick reprieve from homeschooling.
So, what is it and how can you access it here in Australia?
Here’s everything you need to know about the new streaming service.
What is Quibi?
Quibi stands for “quick bites” and is an American short-form mobile video platform which can be downloaded via an app.
The service hosts all sorts of original content from documentaries, scripted series, comedies and news programs, with the added benefit of being 10 minutes or less in length and can be viewed in either a vertical or horizontal format.
The original idea was to consume content quickly while commuting, but as we are only travelling from our bedrooms to our workstations each day, the offering is perfect for a quick break.
How Much is It?
If you’ve already started downloading the app on your phone while reading this article, firstly congratulations on being a brilliant multitasker and secondly, you’ll be pleased to know that Quibi in Australia comes with a 90-day free trial.
Afterwards, just like Netflix or Stan, it will cost $12.99 per month in Australia.
Are We Watching Shows with Celebrities?
At launch, there are already 50 shows across all of the different genres and if you think you’re about to watch the latest YouTube star or influencer, think again. This service has some seriously big names attached to it already.
Chrissy Teigen has a new offering called Chrissy’s Court — which, if you’re a huge Teigen fan, then you’re going to love this Judge Judy type short.
Other celebrities including NBA sports star LeBron James, Australian actor Liam Hemsworth, eccentric actor Bill Murray, directorial legend Steven Spielberg, actor and model Nicole Richie, Jennifer Lopez, and Little Fires Everywhere star Reese Witherspoon.
What Shows Can I Watch?
Below is a taster of some of the best shows to watch on Quibi.
Punk’d
Punk’d is back but this time, the iconic series returns with Chance the Rapper as host —masterminding the biggest pranks behind the scenes.
Chrissy’s Court
Just like Judge Judy, Chrissy’s Court is real people. real cases. And real, legally binding decisions — all ruled by Chrissy Teigen.
Nikki Fresh
Nicole Richie spreads her message of environmental love through a new musical persona and alter ego, “Nikki Fre$h,” a trap music artist who makes eco-conscious choices while dropping sick beats and performing in over the top music videos. Wild.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3IRvX9UaIk
Murder House Flip
An unconventional home renovation show that takes on America’s most infamous homes: ones known for the mysterious murders within their walls.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukVp9ZpfEUo
Most Dangerous Game
A man (Liam Hemsworth) desperate and in debt. In a dystopian thriller where the hunter turns out to be the hunted. Game on. New episodes every weekday.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Icv7FGqZCuA&feature=youtu.be
You can sign up to Quibi for your 90-day free trial.
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