The power and convenience of mobile devices have made content access nearly instantaneous. From social media to streaming apps, entertainment is at your fingertips — and content creators such as Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredricks are capitalizing on the movement. Fredricks is a comedian, actor, and entrepreneur who has been working to establish his brand as someone who connects people from various backgrounds and proudly focuses on amplifying Black voices and content. A significant part of this work is manifested in creating KevOnStage Studios, a multi-channel operation for original content, from podcasts to television shows and films. Although Fredricks’ work has taken off, it hasn’t always been this way. His journey started from the proverbial bottom, and now he’s working to build an empire that puts his name alongside those who own major streaming platforms including Netflix and Hulu.

If you love streaming platforms, allow us to introduce you to Chris Witherspoon — the founder behind what is about to become your new favorite app, PopViewers. A veteran in the TV and film space, Witherspoon knows a thing or two about attending screenings and premieres, but he says one thing has been missing in the industry. “I recognize that oftentimes, the problem of critics is that they don’t adequately reflect the viewership and the people that are actually paying to go see the movies,” said Witherspoon in an interview with AfroTech. He explains that while people are paying to subscribe to a service, it doesn’t always reflect the audience and how they consume content. “Sometimes it aligns, but more often times than not, it doesn’t,” he continued. “And more recently I recognize the opportunity that I have now to amplify the voices of viewers and marginalized communities of Black and brown people that I think show up and engage around entertainment in a way that Hollywood really...

This year, Netflix made its mark at the Oscars with multiple nominations and wins. The Netflix Original “Roma” took home three wins alone, including best director, best cinematography, and best foreign language film. However, Netflix’s success irked some members of the film industry, like director Steven Spielberg , who proposed changing the Academy’s rules to make it difficult for streaming services to qualify. But now, it seems Netflix can relax. The Academy is leaving its rules unchanged , so Netflix and other streaming services — including Hulu, Amazon, and more — can compete in the Oscars without additional hurdles. Before the Academy’s vote, the Department of Justice warned that excluding streaming services like Netflix and Hulu could raise antirust concerns. “In the event that the Academy — an association that includes multiple competitors in its membership — establishes certain eligibility requirements for the Oscars that eliminate competition without procompetitive...