Audio entertainment platform Pocket FM has shut down its microdrama vertical Pocket TV as it shifts focus to its flagship audio platform, the company confirmed. The decision was announced this week amid a growing microdrama market in India, where several players are entering the segment. Pocket FM said Pocket TV was launched as a beta product but did not contribute materially to its business, according to inc42.com.
A company spokesperson told inc42.com that Pocket TV was an experimental product to explore the microdrama category, but its performance and strategic fit were periodically evaluated. The spokesperson added that Pocket FM is already profitable and cash-flow positive, with a strong balance sheet and growth across key markets. The startup plans to increase its focus on overseas markets alongside its core audio offering.
India’s microdrama segment is attracting new entrants such as Kuku FM, ShareChat, and JioHotstar’s Tadka, all betting on the fast-growing market. Gaming startup Zupee recently acquired microdrama startup Vertical TV to expand its short-video content. Despite this, Pocket FM is concentrating on the audio OTT space, competing with Kuku FM and Audible in a market projected to reach $3.2 billion by 2030.
Pocket FM was founded in 2018 and offers a range of audio content. The company’s decision to close Pocket TV reflects a strategic move to prioritise its profitable audio platform and expand internationally, according to inc42.com.