MSNBC has launched a new domain, ms.now, following its recent rebranding to MS NOW. The new website retains a similar layout to the previous MSNBC site but features a new logo, replacing the iconic peacock with the updated MS NOW flag logo. This change is part of MS NOW’s transition to an independent newsroom, which began separating from NBC News last October.
The rebranding and website update come in the wake of Comcast’s decision to spin off its cable channels, including MSNBC, which has facilitated MS NOW’s move to dissociate from its prior affiliations with NBC. As part of this shift, the launch of the new domain marks a significant change in MS NOW’s identity.
Despite this rebranding effort, MS NOW was unable to secure the msnow.com domain, which is currently linked to a page about motorized snow vehicles. However, the .now domain extension became available for purchase about a year ago, providing an alternative for the company.
Interestingly, the initials “MS” in MS NOW continue to be used, even though Microsoft divested its stake in the MSNBC brand over a decade ago. The new meaning attributed to “MS” is “My Source for News, Opinion, and the World.” The rebranding raises questions about the implications of such a name change and MS NOW’s strategic direction going forward.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/822028/msnbc-msnow-rebrand-new-website