In a significant move that could reshape the streaming landscape, Netflix has announced a groundbreaking partnership with French media company TF1 Group to bring traditional TV channels to its platform in France. Starting in summer 2026, Netflix subscribers in France will have access to TF1’s free-to-air live TV channels and on-demand TF1 Plus streaming content directly within the Netflix app.
This strategic alliance marks a departure from Netflix’s traditional model of on-demand streaming, as it will now offer a blend of linear TV channels alongside its existing library of movies, TV shows, and original content. By incorporating traditional broadcast channels, Netflix aims to provide a comprehensive entertainment experience for its subscribers, allowing them to access a wide range of content without switching between different platforms.
The decision to integrate traditional TV channels into the Netflix app comes at a time when the streaming industry is witnessing a shift towards hybrid models that combine on-demand streaming with live TV offerings. With linear TV facing “secular decline,” as noted by Ars Technica, streaming services are exploring new ways to attract and retain subscribers by diversifying their content offerings.
Netflix’s partnership with TF1 Group reflects the growing convergence between traditional media and streaming platforms, as established broadcasters seek to reach wider audiences through digital distribution channels. By collaborating with TF1, one of France’s leading media companies, Netflix is expanding its content portfolio and enhancing its appeal to French viewers who value both traditional TV channels and streaming services.
The move also underscores Netflix’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer preferences and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving media landscape. By incorporating traditional TV channels into its platform, Netflix is catering to a broader spectrum of viewers who enjoy the convenience of streaming while still appreciating the familiarity of linear TV programming.
While the integration of traditional TV channels into the Netflix app is currently limited to France, the success of this initiative could set a precedent for similar partnerships in other markets. As streaming services continue to innovate and experiment with new content formats, the boundary between traditional TV and streaming is becoming increasingly blurred, offering viewers more choices and flexibility in how they consume entertainment.
Overall, Netflix’s decision to offer traditional TV channels in France represents a bold step towards redefining the streaming experience and catering to a diverse range of viewer preferences. As the industry evolves, we can expect to see more collaborations between streaming platforms and traditional broadcasters, reshaping the future of entertainment delivery.
References:
1. The Verge – Netflix will air traditional TV channels inside its app in France
[https://www.theverge.com/news/689022/netflix-tf1-group-carriage-deal-tv-channels]
2. Slashdot – Netflix Will Air Traditional TV Channels in France
[https://entertainment.slashdot.org/story/25/06/18/1443245/netflix-will-air-traditional-tv-channels-in-france?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed]
3. Ars Technica – Netflix will start showing traditional broadcast channels next summer
[https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/06/netflix-will-start-showing-traditional-broadcast-channels-next-summer/]
