The “new” free streaming service in this headline is Globi, which launched in December 2021—not in 2026. At launch, Globi described itself as an ad-supported service for international films and television, with more than 500 hours of programming from over 20 countries. That figure and its device list are historical launch claims; current operation, apps and catalog are not verified.
What was Globi?
Globi launched as a free, advertising-supported video-on-demand service, or AVOD, focused on international films and television. Its launch announcement also described linear programming, so viewers were offered both scheduled, channel-style viewing and on-demand titles. World Screen reported the launch on December 10, 2021; the company’s announcement was dated the previous day and described the service as launching “today.”
Globi’s launch materials claimed more than 500 hours of programming from over 20 countries. The 500 hours referred to programming, not 500 individual movies: the collection included films, episodes and series. The launch sources do not give a full title count, a breakdown of films versus shows, or a language-by-language inventory. The figure should not be treated as a current catalog size or a guarantee of how long content remained available. (Business Wire launch announcement; World Screen’s launch report)
What films and shows were in the launch lineup?
Launch coverage cited titles from a range of countries and genres. These are examples reported at the time, not a list of what can be streamed today.
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| Title | Country identified in launch coverage | Format or genre described |
|---|---|---|
| Polina | France | Drama |
| Ma Ma | Spain | Drama starring Penélope Cruz |
| Terribly Happy | Denmark | Crime drama film |
| Over Water | Belgium | Drama series |
| Stockholm Requiem | Sweden | Crime series |
| Rare Exports | Finland | Action-drama fantasy film |
| November | Estonia | Horror film |
| Embrace the Serpent | Colombia | Historical drama |
| Reality | Italy | Film |
| Contact | France | Procedural drama |
| Soul Mates | Australia | Comedy series |
| Wolf Trap | Russia | Gangster series |
The launch materials emphasize international productions, but “from more than 20 countries” does not mean every country or language was represented. A production’s country also does not establish which audio tracks or subtitles were available for a particular title; the launch sources do not provide a complete language or subtitle guide.
How was the service supposed to work?
With AVOD, viewers do not pay a subscription fee to watch, but advertising supports the service. “Free” therefore did not mean ad-free. The launch announcement does not establish whether Globi required an account, email address or other registration, nor does it specify ad frequency. Internet access and a compatible device were still necessary.
Rank #2
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The linear option was intended for channel-style viewing, while video on demand let viewers select programming. The available launch information does not explain the number of channels, their schedules or how the viewing experience was divided between the two modes.
Where and on what devices was Globi announced?
At launch, Globi was described as available online at Globi.tv and on Apple TV, Roku, Samsung TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android mobile and iOS mobile. The company also said it planned to expand availability to most countries by the end of 2022. That was a plan, not confirmation that the expansion happened. Neither the old device list nor the expansion statement verifies where Globi or its apps work now.
Rank #3
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
Before trying to watch, check whether Globi’s official site loads and whether the app appears in the relevant device’s current app store. A missing listing could reflect an unsupported device generation, a country-specific store, a discontinued app or a service change; the available launch sources do not identify which, if any, applies.
Is Globi still operating in 2026?
Current operation is unverified. The available evidence confirms the 2021 launch, but does not establish whether Globi.tv currently streams, whether its apps remain available, whether the service still operates in the United States, or whether its original catalog and rights are still in place. The launch-era 500-hour claim cannot answer those questions.
Rank #4
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
If a title cited in launch coverage is absent, that alone would not show whether the service has closed: streaming rights can change and catalogs rotate. Likewise, an old press release naming a platform is not proof that a working app remains available there. Treat Globi as a historical free-service launch unless you can confirm access directly.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What are the alternatives if you want international films or free viewing?
The right substitute depends on whether you value international-film curation, a broad free catalog or live channel-style viewing. These services are comparison points, not evidence that Globi is currently unavailable or that any particular title is carried today.
Best Value
- Streaming made easy: Roku Express lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet—right to your TV. It’s perfect for new users, secondary TVs and easy gifting—but powerful enough for seasoned pros
- Quick and easy setup: Just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet to get started
- Tons of power, tons of fun: Compact and power-packed, you’ll stream your favorites with ease; from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV and PlayStation Vue, enjoy the most talked about TV across free and paid channels
- Low cost, no extra fees: For under $30, Roku Express streaming device includes a High Speed HDMI Cable—and there’s no monthly equipment fee; with access to free TV on hundreds of channels, there’s plenty to stream without spending extra
- Simple remote: Incredibly easy to use, this remote features shortcut buttons to popular streaming channels
- For a broad free catalog: Tubi offers general-purpose movies and television, with international selections among a wider mix.
- For live, lean-back viewing: Pluto TV is more channel-oriented and broad in genre.
- For a general free mix of live and on-demand programming: Plex is less narrowly focused on international cinema.
- For curated independent and international cinema: Mubi is a more specialized option, but it is generally paid rather than a like-for-like free AVOD replacement.
Catalogs, app support and access vary by service and location. Check each service directly for current availability and terms.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
