Chinese video streaming services in the context of global platform studies. Issue 3 (3rd July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Wilfred Yang; Lobato, Ramon
• Is Part Of: Chinese journal of communication. Volume 12:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 356
• Page End: 371
• Publication Date: 2019-07-03
• Subjects: video streaming -- platform regulation -- video on demand (VOD) -- interfaces -- personalization -- iQiyi; Communication -- China -- Periodicals; 302.2095105
• DOI: 10.1080/17544750.2019.1584119
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-4750

Abstract

Abstract: While recent platform theory within media and communication studies has been developed around US-based examples, platformization has taken a rather different path in China. Focusing on the video streaming service iQiyi, this article asks: What can we learn from approaching Chinese platforms not merely as exception to Western models, but as an opportunity for theory-building around platformization generally? We argue that Chinese online video represents a useful case for rethinking specific elements of platform theory as currently developed in English-language scholarship. Through a close analysis of iQiyi's interface and regulation, we develop two arguments. The first argument concerns the relationship between regulatory environment, market structure, and platform affordances; and the second concerns platform interfaces, personalization, and fragmentation.