Xumo, a startup that has built an OTT video service initially focused on smart TV platforms and underpinned its business on free ad-supported content, said it has added FailArmy to its service, which is currently supported on more than 9 million connected TVs.
The deal expands Xumo’s content slate and expands the reach of FailArmy, a multiplatform service known for its online compilation of stupid human tricks and real-world "fails" that's owned and operated by Jukin Media that, it claims, has 17 million “fans” across YouTube, social media outlets, and OTT distribution partners such as Pluto TV.
FailArmy says it reaches more than 400 million views per month across all its digital platforms. If you haven't seen it, here's a sampling below. Yes, failure is an option:
Xumo is currently offered on smart TVs from LG, Vizio and Panasonic, and will be available via Funai Electric, maker of TVs under the Sanyo, Philips and Magnavox brands in North America.
Xumo, which recently hired Stefan Van Engen as SVP of content programming and acquisitions, also has plans to release apps for mobile and desktops later this year.
“Xumo delivers unique, entertaining digital content that is conveniently accessible and we’re pleased to add FailArmy to the mix,” said Colin Petrie-Norris, CEO of Xumo, in a statement. “We’re redefining what it means to be a television channel – and our rapidly growing audience is falling in love with the fresh fails delivered to them via the largest screen in the home.”
Other Xumo content partners include Time Inc., Condé Nast Entertainment, Bloomberg, Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, BuzzFeed, PopSugar, Mitú Network, Machinima, TYT Network and The Onion, among others.
