Pocket FM Shuts Pocket TV Despite India’s Microdrama Boom
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Audio entertainment platform Pocket FM has shut its microdrama vertical Pocket TV, as it plans to focus on its flagship audio platform.
A company spokesperson told Inc42 that the vertical was launched as a beta product to explore the microdrama category but did not make any material contribution to Pocket FM’s business.
“As with any product experiment, we periodically evaluate performance and strategic fit, and any decisions related to Pocket TV are part of that normal process. Pocket FM is already profitable and cash-flow positive, with a strong balance sheet and healthy growth across its key markets,” the spokesperson added.
The development was first reported by ET, which said that along with its audio platform, the startup plans to increase its focus on overseas markets.
The development comes at a time when India’s microdrama segment is seeing entry of a number of new players, as companies look to capitalise on the fast-growing market. From Kuku FM and ShareChat to JioHotstar’s Tadka, major companies in the industry are betting on microdrama for growth. Earlier this year, gaming startup Zupee also acquired Mumbai-based microdrama startup Vertical TV to strengthen its short-video offering
However, Pocket FM seems to be doubling down on its core strength in the audio OTT space. The startup competes with the likes of Kuku FM and Audible in the Indian audio OTT segment, which is projected to become a $3.2 Bn opportunity by 2030.
Founded in 2018, Pocket FM offers audio content across multiple languages and genres. Backed by Lightspeed, Stepstone Group, Tencent, and Times Internet, the startup has raised $196 Mn to date. It was last valued at $750 Mn during its $103 Mn Series D funding round in 2024.
On the financial front, the startup, in April, claimed to have crossed $400 Mn in ARR in March 2026. Founder and CEO Rohan Nayak said that the startup was free cash flow positive with nearly 5% EBITDA, without specifying the period for the same.
In FY25, the startup claimed its revenues grew 68% to ₹1,768 Cr from ₹1,052 Cr in the previous fiscal.
The development also comes at a time when Pocket FM’s primary competitor Kuku FM is gearing up for its IPO. Earlier this month, the startup filed its DRHP via the confidential route to raise up to ₹2,500 Cr to ₹3,500 Cr through its public issue at a likely valuation of up to ₹15,000 Cr (about $1.8 Bn).
While Pocket FM is also said to be eyeing an IPO, the company has not disclosed any timeline for it.
The post Pocket FM Shuts Pocket TV Despite India’s Microdrama Boom appeared first on Inc42 Media.
