The Mystery of Streaming TV Debunked
AireBeam Offers Insights on Streaming TV and Why It Makes Sense to Consider
Many are familiar with cable television and the programming it offers. But as technology advances and people continue to increasingly rely on the Internet to support their home many are looking to streaming for their entertainment needs. However, the question most still ask is, can you access the same programming that cable TV offers?
The short answer is a resounding, yes, and even more! While TV streaming matches what cable television offers, especially local programming, it has a whole lot of other benefits for subscribers. The most challenging part of streaming, with all its options and ability to view content at any time on any device, is deciding which platform or combination of platforms are right for you. As streaming becomes more popular and cable becomes less affordable, more subscribers are taking the plunge.
What Is Streaming TV?
Streaming resembles the traditional way people used to watch TV via cable. However, it allows them to use the Internet to watch shows, movies, sports, or news channels across many devices in real-time or on demand. In simpler terms, streaming TV accesses video entertainment over the Internet rather than through broadcast, cable, or satellite services. It can be accessed on most devices that can connect to the Internet, including smart TVs, smartphones, computers, and tablets.
There are a number of ways to connect to streaming services. You can connect to a streaming service through your smart TV’s interface, directly from streaming sites, or with apps or a web browser. Also, streaming is available through services like Amazon Prime, Netflix or Hulu, among many others.
How Does Streaming TV Work?
For streaming services, you should have a reliable Internet connection with enough speed. AireBeam Fiber Internet in particular offers a lag-free, HD streaming experience with packages ranging from 500 Mbps up to 5 Gig.
What Types of Streaming Content Are There?
There are a number of different streaming options which provide flexibility in programming from traditional broadcast or cable television. Here is a rundown:
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Live TV streaming services involve being able to watch live content happening in real-time. Many platforms offer live TV such as Hulu + Live TV. With platforms like this, you can access all your favorite channels just like you would with traditional cable
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On-demand streaming involves having instant access to videos from online libraries. It’s become one of the most preferred ways to watch video content. On-demand video streaming allows viewers to decide how, where, and when to view media content.
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Free streaming, whether you want free news, videos, or shows, TV streaming does not require the subscriber to pay a single cent for a subscription. Several free services exist that are easily accessible, though there may be ads.
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Cable TV Is Easy to Access – What About Streaming TV?
Here-in lies probably the biggest “misconception” with streaming TV versus cable television – it is hard to access and to know what is on or available at what time. Cable television has an easy-to-use guide and usually a search function to find programming simply without hassle.
Now, more and more fiber Internet providers are offering easy to use interfaces or platforms similar to what cable offers to allow for simplifying streaming services. MyBundle TV is an example of such a platform. Based on a fiber Internet subscriber’s preferences and favorite channels, MyBundle’s Find My Bundle tool will figure out which Live TV package is best for the subscriber, making the transition to streaming TV as seamless as can be. MyBundle and platforms like it can configure a content package for a subscriber and provide an easy-to-use interface to start getting programming based on preferences quickly, including local television stations. As technology with these platforms such as MyBundle advance, they will make the streaming experience even more enjoyable and easy to set up and use, as explained here.
How Can One Get Started Streaming?
Today’s technology has made streaming TV on devices easier than ever before. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1) Select a Streaming Device
The streaming device is what allows you to connect to the Internet and stream programs. Options include:
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A Smart TV
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A non-Smart TV with a streaming device added (like Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Chromecast, FireTV, or Roku)
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A computer
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A tablet
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A smartphone
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A video gaming console
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Smart TVs come with various options, including voice control and varying visual interfaces, to make streaming the programs you want to watch easier. It’s also helpful to note the TV picture quality and remote-control design when deciding which one to buy. Most people prefer streaming through a Smart TV because it is already set up to stream with truly little effort or knowledge. They come customized with a user-friendly search system and access to many streaming services. These TVs have incredible HD pictures and come pre-installed with streaming apps like Amazon Prime, Disney, HBO Max, Hulu, and Netflix.
Step 2) Select the Most Appropriate Streaming Service
A streaming service provides you with the channels and programs you want to watch. Use your computer, tablet, or smartphone to create an account with your most preferred streaming service. You can usually do this from the service’s website or by downloading an app from the app store. Then, log into the service using the device you wish to use to stream the service.
If you are using a TV to connect to your streaming service, apps for popular services are probably available on the homepage. However, you may require downloading an app if you want to use a service that is not already preloaded on your television. Some popular streaming services include:
If it’s your first time using the streaming application, you will need to fill in your details and choose the most fitting subscription for your budget and content preference. For example, if you watch a lot of live TV you may opt for something like Youtube TV. If you’re mainly interested in movies or TV shows, a Hulu or Disney+ bundle may be more up your alley. If you’re searching for the right streaming service, MyBundle packages these together and has it all available in the same place with easy accessibility in a customized fashion just for you.
Why Should People Switch from Cable to Streaming TV?
So, why should people consider streaming TV over broadcast and/or cable? Another myth about streaming TV is it is brand new and a bit unproven. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. Streaming TV has been around for years and while switching from cable TV to streaming services was once more of a cost-cutting rarity, it’s become more mainstream. There are many people who started to watch streaming TV during the pandemic instead of traditional TV to add to their entertainment options while social distancing. This and demand for higher speed content and gaming applications has increased its popularity and accessibility over the past few years.
There are number of reasons to consider switching from cable to streaming TV that might entice people to take the plunge:
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It costs less: You can find some streaming services that cost less than $10 a month, compared to cable or satellite prices. With the rising costs of cable, even multiple subscriptions may prove to be cost efficient.
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Some shows are only available from streaming services: Many popular shows like Netflix Originals and Apple TV programs are only available if you subscribe to their service online.
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You can sometimes catch first-run movies: With fewer people going to the theater in-person, you may be able to watch some first-run movies with services like Disney+ or HBOMax.
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You can binge-watch: You can watch all the TV episodes of a TV show from start to finish at your own pace, never missing an episode.
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You can watch from anywhere: Wherever you are, you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows any time of the day, as long as you have Internet access, whether through Wi-Fi or cellular on your smartphone.
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Still, the overwhelming reason to switch has been cost as one can reduce cable bills by 60-70% while still getting the same programming, and in some cases, even more. As streaming has become more popular, maintaining the quality and availability of cable has become more expensive for cable companies which often is passed on to the consumer.
About AireBeam
AireBeam was founded in 2004 and is one of Arizona’s fastest growing fiber to the home and fixed wireless Internet service providers. AireBeam is locally operated and proudly serves Pinal and Maricopa Counties, Arizona City and the surrounding areas. Their mission is to provide affordable and accessible Internet access to rural areas in Arizona. AireBeam is a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE:BOC).