With the highly anticipated IPL 2025 just around the corner, JIOStar is making significant strides in reshaping the sports broadcasting landscape in India. In a strategic move, the company—formed through a joint venture between Reliance Industries, Disney, and Bodhi Tree—is set to introduce multiple regional sports channels in standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD). This initiative aims to cater to India’s diverse linguistic audience, ensuring that IPL 2025 reaches fans in their preferred language.
Let’s delve into the details of this exciting transformation and explore how it will enhance the viewing experience for cricket lovers across the nation.
IPL 2025: JIOStar Preps Regional Channels For Spectators, Find Out Which Languages Are To Be Included
JIOStar’s rebranding initiative is set to revolutionize sports broadcasting in India. The company is renaming and reformatting its existing Sports18 channels under the Star Sports banner. The revamped lineup includes multiple regional channels, making the IPL more accessible to non-Hindi and non-English-speaking audiences.
Key Highlights of JIOStar’s Sports Broadcasting Revamp
- Rebranding of Sport18 as Star Sports to unify the sports broadcasting experience.
- Five existing Sports18 channels will undergo a name change to align with regional viewership preferences.
- Introduction of new regional language HD channels for enhanced viewer engagement.
- March 15, 2025 launch date for premium HD channels.
- Discontinuation of nine entertainment channels to optimize broadcasting resources.
How JIOStar’s Regional Expansion Will Benefit IPL 2025 Viewers?
Enhanced Accessibility for Regional Audiences
Cricket enjoys a massive fan following across India, and the inclusion of regional language sports channels will significantly boost engagement. Whether you’re a fan in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, or Uttar Pradesh, JIOStar’s expansion ensures you can watch IPL 2025 in your preferred language.
List of New Regional Star Sports Channels
JIOStar will introduce the following regional channels under the Star Sports brand:
| Former Name | New Name | Language |
|---|---|---|
| Sports18 1 | Star Sports 2 Hindi | Hindi |
| Sports18 2 | Star Sports 2 Telugu | Telugu |
| Sports18 3 | Star Sports 2 Tamil | Tamil |
| Sports18 Khel | Star Sports Khel | Multi-Regional |
Launch of HD Versions for Premium Users
JIOStar is launching three premium HD channels to enhance the IPL viewing experience:
- Star Sports 2 Hindi HD
- Star Sports 2 Telugu HD
- Star Sports 2 Tamil HD
These channels will go live on March 15, 2025, exclusively for premium subscribers.
JIOStar’s Expanded Sports Channel Portfolio
JIOStar is set to operate 23 sports channels in both SD and HD formats, covering multiple languages.
Additional Highlights of JIOStar’s Broadcast Expansion
- Colours Rishtey and Star Utsav will remain Free-To-Air (FTA), providing sports content at no extra cost.
- 130 paid and FTA channels will be managed under the joint venture.
- 83 broadcaster packs will be offered, including a six-channel FTA pack for budget-conscious viewers.
List of Discontinued Channels
To streamline operations, JIOStar will discontinue nine entertainment channels, including:
- Comedy Central SD & HD
- VH1 SD & HD
- MTV Beats SD & HD
- Bindass
- Colours Odia
- Star Kiran HD
What This Means for IPL 2025 Fans?
This transformation is a game-changer for IPL broadcasting, as it ensures:
- Localized coverage for millions of fans.
- High-definition quality streaming in regional languages.
- Greater engagement across diverse demographics.
FAQs
1. When will the new regional channels be available?
The new regional Star Sports channels will be available starting March 15, 2025.
2. Will IPL 2025 be broadcasted in regional languages?
Yes, IPL 2025 will be available in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and multiple other regional languages via JIOStar’s expanded channel lineup.
3. How many sports channels will JIOStar operate?
JIOStar will manage 23 sports channels in SD and HD formats across various languages.
4. Which channels are being discontinued?
Nine entertainment channels, including Comedy Central, VH1, and Bindass, will be shut down to focus on sports broadcasting.
5. Will there be HD versions of regional Star Sports channels?
Yes, premium HD versions—Star Sports 2 Hindi HD, Star Sports 2 Telugu HD, and Star Sports 2 Tamil HD—will be available from March 15, 2025.
6. Will these changes impact IPL 2025 streaming on JioCinema?
No, IPL 2025 streaming on JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar will continue alongside the new TV broadcasts.
Conclusion
JIOStar’s bold move to revamp its sports broadcasting ahead of IPL 2025 signals a new era for regional-language sports coverage. By offering localized content in multiple languages, JIOStar ensures that cricket fans from all corners of India enjoy a seamless and immersive IPL experience. Whether you’re watching in Hindi, Tamil, or Telugu, JIOStar has you covered! Get ready for IPL 2025—bigger, better, and more inclusive than ever before!
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