News
September 19, 2025
Is this the worst product launch in Australian media history?
After burning $200 million on a product that was almost a decade late, Foxtel has finally seen the light, while The Guardian may be getting ready to welcome one of its greats back on deck.
Foxtel's long-awaited streaming aggregation platform, Hubbl, has officially launched, but industry analysts are already questioning whether it will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. After reportedly sinking a staggering $200 million into the project, which was almost a decade overdue, the reception to Hubbl has been lukewarm at best, prompting some to ask if this is the worst product launch in Australian media history.
Hubbl was envisioned as a revolutionary device that would seamlessly integrate various streaming services into one user-friendly interface. The idea was to simplify the viewing experience for consumers overwhelmed by the sheer number of platforms like Netflix, Stan, and Disney+. However, reports suggest that the execution hasn't quite lived up to the hype. Initial reviews have pointed to a clunky interface, limited content integration, and a price point that doesn't necessarily offer a significant advantage over subscribing to individual streaming services directly.
The massive investment in Hubbl raises serious questions about Foxtel's strategic direction. With traditional pay-TV subscriptions declining, the company was clearly hoping Hubbl would be a game-changer in the increasingly competitive streaming landscape. Instead, it appears to have delivered a product that is both expensive and underwhelming, potentially leaving Foxtel struggling to recoup its investment. The failure to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences in a timely manner has been a recurring criticism leveled at the media giant, and Hubbl seems to be the latest manifestation of this issue.
Meanwhile, across the media landscape, The Guardian Australia is reportedly preparing to welcome back a prominent figure. While details remain scarce, sources suggest a "great" of the publication is poised to return to the fold, potentially bolstering the newspaper's already strong investigative journalism and in-depth reporting. The identity of this individual remains shrouded in secrecy, but their return would undoubtedly be a significant boost for The Guardian Australia, adding experience and expertise to its editorial team. The speculation has already sparked excitement amongst media insiders and Guardian readers alike, with many eagerly awaiting an official announcement. The timing of this potential homecoming couldn't be better, as the media industry continues to navigate a period of rapid change and intense competition.
Hubbl was envisioned as a revolutionary device that would seamlessly integrate various streaming services into one user-friendly interface. The idea was to simplify the viewing experience for consumers overwhelmed by the sheer number of platforms like Netflix, Stan, and Disney+. However, reports suggest that the execution hasn't quite lived up to the hype. Initial reviews have pointed to a clunky interface, limited content integration, and a price point that doesn't necessarily offer a significant advantage over subscribing to individual streaming services directly.
The massive investment in Hubbl raises serious questions about Foxtel's strategic direction. With traditional pay-TV subscriptions declining, the company was clearly hoping Hubbl would be a game-changer in the increasingly competitive streaming landscape. Instead, it appears to have delivered a product that is both expensive and underwhelming, potentially leaving Foxtel struggling to recoup its investment. The failure to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences in a timely manner has been a recurring criticism leveled at the media giant, and Hubbl seems to be the latest manifestation of this issue.
Meanwhile, across the media landscape, The Guardian Australia is reportedly preparing to welcome back a prominent figure. While details remain scarce, sources suggest a "great" of the publication is poised to return to the fold, potentially bolstering the newspaper's already strong investigative journalism and in-depth reporting. The identity of this individual remains shrouded in secrecy, but their return would undoubtedly be a significant boost for The Guardian Australia, adding experience and expertise to its editorial team. The speculation has already sparked excitement amongst media insiders and Guardian readers alike, with many eagerly awaiting an official announcement. The timing of this potential homecoming couldn't be better, as the media industry continues to navigate a period of rapid change and intense competition.
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Business