US TV networks embrace 'binge-watching', taking cue from likes of Netflix

Los Angeles

US networks are changing the way they develop and release new shows, and even commercials, as they seek to adapt to new TV viewing habits and profit from the "binge-watching" made popular by video streaming services such as Netflix.

The changes could help offset declining audiences and the trend known as "cord cutting", as a growing number of Americans opt to go without traditional cable or satellite television service and rely instead on Internet streaming video.

Viacom Inc's TV Land network is developing more serialised programming where the plot unfolds with each episode, and recently changed the storyline of a new show…