Releasing Update, Cafe Bazaar Breaks Into Video Streaming Services

EghtesadOnline: Major Iranian Android app store Cafe Bazaar has forayed into the video streaming business by releasing a new update for its popular mobile application.

News ID: ۷۴۵۴۹۳

20 June 2018

The store’s last upgrade (version 7.16.8) has undergone a drastic change, now offering users the chance to watch the 2018 FIFA World Cup online and follow soccer-related news and results.

Users can have access to foreign analysis on Iran’s matches with Persian subtitles and keep abreast of the latest news, Bazaar reported through a blog post on its website.

Cafe Bazaar is collaborating with local IPTV service provider AIO (pronounced I-O) to deliver the streaming services to the public and plays ads before screening clips or online sports matches to make a profit, Financial Tribune reported.

The feature is currently predominated by the 2018 World Cup, but AIO Sport also streams basketball, volleyball and tennis games, along with exciting events such as motor races, including Formula One. Such programs can also be streamed by Bazaar in the future.

An important feature of Bazaar’s new service is its interactive nature. Users can leave comments and squabble over the matches while watching the videos.

Moreover, the contests are reported by male and female reporters, which leaves users with options in choosing the between official commentators working with Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting or alternatives employed by AIO.

Company Agenda

Cafe Bazaar CEO Amin Amirsharifi says the feature has gone public with the help of “Instant Apps” developers. Instant Apps are programs users can open before requiring installation.  If users like the app, they can download and purchase it if necessary.

Pointing to the modifications made in the current Cafe Bazaar version, Amirsharifi said, “The changes will gradually be added to the first page. Last year the app store offered users access to instant apps to deliver services to subscribers in a more efficient manner.”

According to Amirsharifi, this year the homegrown business will focus on providing video content.

“We are aiming to offer the matchless video streaming services with satisfactory content to the public, with the combined effort of content developers and experts in the field.”

Cafe Bazaar has 35 million active users and is the largest app publisher in the country.