Anuvu Adds Pokémon to Expanding Global IFE Portfolio
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In-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) provider Anuvu has announced a partnership with The Pokémon Company International to bring Pokémon films and television series to airline cabins worldwide. The partnership gives airlines access to one of the most recognizable entertainment franchises in the world, expanding in-flight content options for passengers of all ages. Beginning in 2026, travelers will be able to watch a curated collection of Pokémon titles across participating airline networks.
Bringing Pokémon to the Cabin
Through the agreement, Anuvu will introduce an extensive Pokémon library to airline entertainment platforms, including multiple seasons from the original animated series and several feature films. Titles such as Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! and Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us will be added to in-flight catalogs, allowing passengers to watch content from the franchise during their journey.
“Pokémon is […] a global phenomenon that inspires joy across multiple generations.”
– David Horan, Anuvu
The addition reflects growing airline demand for known brands that connect with different ages and cultures. Pokémon’s multigenerational appeal makes it particularly suited to the aviation environment, where families, casual viewers, and long-time fans can all watch the content.
For Anuvu, the partnership is a way to bring premium theatrical quality storytelling into non-theatrical environments. By introducing big franchise content into the airline market, the company boosts the value of IFE and gives passengers more chances to engage with brands they already know.
“Pokémon is more than a franchise, it’s a global phenomenon that inspires joy across multiple generations,” said Anuvu Manager Content Acquisition and Partnership David Horan. “Its enduring popularity makes it a perfect addition to our library, and we are thrilled to help airlines deliver the world of Pokémon to millions of passengers.”
Expanding Family and Multigenerational Entertainment
Pokémon remains one of the most successful entertainment properties in the world, consistently ranking among top global licensors. Its animated universe airs in more than 190 countries and regions, giving it cross-market recognition. For airlines operating international routes, that kind of familiarity is very important.
Family-friendly programming plays a pivotal role in IFE strategy as airlines increasingly look for titles that appeal to children while remaining engaging for adults. Pokémon’s storytelling attracts viewers across age groups, helping airlines serve diverse passenger demographics with a single content investment.
The partnership also strengthens in-flight content offerings for short- and long-haul travel. Animated series and feature films like those provided by Pokémon offer flexible viewing formats that suit different flight lengths, with passengers able to watch a full movie or pick shorter episodes.
By adding recognizable franchise content, airlines reduce browsing friction. Passengers often gravitate toward familiar titles, especially when traveling with children. Pokémon offers a trusted option that encourages engagement and increases overall satisfaction with the entertainment experience for passengers.
Strengthening Anuvu’s Content Strategy
The agreement reinforces Anuvu’s position as a major distributor focused on premium brand partnerships. The company continues to prioritize securing high-demand intellectual property for non-theatrical markets.
The company provides IFE service for many airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, TUI Airways, Air Canada, Air Cȏte d’Ivoire, and Norse Atlantic Airways. In August, Platinum Equity signed a definitive agreement to acquire Anuvu. The acquisition highlights the growing importance of digital services as airlines continue to invest in technology to enhance the passenger experience.
Anuvu’s partnerships division focuses on connecting big studios with travel and mobility platforms. By moving movie and TV franchises into aviation, the company widens the range of content airlines can offer beyond traditional streaming platforms. Airlines benefit from curated catalogs that balance popular appeal with dependable delivery.
The Pokémon deal fits a larger shift toward franchise-focused entertainment in aviation. Passengers want the onboard experience to feel closer to what they watch at home. Airlines are answering that by adding recognizable brands that instantly click with viewers and anchor the entertainment line-up.