Will Internet TV Replace Cable?
Last week Google TV was released and the merging of TV and the Internet appears to be a reality. I have been watching the developments in this space very closely, hoping for an opportunity to drop my cable TV and replace it with Internet based programming. Most people are spending $50 to $100 per month for cable television, which I think is completely unreasonable. Let’s take a look at what Internet TV options are available now.
Probably the most feature rich service available. Users can browse the Internet, make video calls, and even access Twitter and Facebook through their television. Google TV will come pre-loaded with apps like Netflix, Twitter, CNBC, Pandora, Napster, NBA Game Time, Amazon Video On Demand and Gallery. Starting early next year, apps from Android Market will work on Google TV as well.
Access content through iTunes, Netflix, and YouTube.
Access content through Hulu, Netflix, Youtube, and Boxee (on demand movies).
Major content providers are Netflix and Hulu.
While all of the above services provide access to a large amount of free content, most users will likely purchase so-called premium content. So, there is no free lunch here. The costs, however, are much more reasonable than cable TV. Netflix has an unlimited movie and TV show package for just $9 per month. Hulu Plus (the premium level of Hulu) is only $10 per month for unlimited access to most TV shows. What I love about these services is that they allow you to purchase the programming that you want a la carte. What I hate about Cable is that they require you to buy bundles that include dozens of channels you may have no interest in.
For those that like to watch live news, your choices are still limited with Internet TV. I would suspect that in the very near future this will be an option.
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James L. Paris
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