The younger generation in their early twenties and thirties are known as “cable cutters,” which means that the majority of Gen Y are using Internet TV services rather than cable. A generation that has grown up with cutting edge technology believes there is no point in paying for cable when the same shows are available online for a fraction of the price.
But, is it too good to be true? Can online Internet TV truly replace what cable and satellite TV companies have to offer? Although cutting the cord on cable results in less monthly expenses, online streaming has its own fair share of problems that do not appear to have any impending solutions.
Streaming, Cable, or Satellite?
What exactly is the difference between Internet streaming, cable, and satellite?
Unlike cable and satellite, which provide live television, Internet streaming companies such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon or primetime channel websites air TV shows anywhere from days to months after their original live TV airdate.
Cable and satellite offer packages, like DIRECT TV Internet, that offer streaming options, as well as the ability to watch shows from remote locations without Wi-Fi, while Internet streaming services must be attached to a network in order to work.
Price
Netflix originally began as a replacement to video rental stores, but its platform has morphed into competing against live television and other streaming sites. However, they have maintained their low price for digital streaming, as have Amazon and Hulu.
For the younger generation who is constantly on the move but never without their technology, digital streaming is a great price in comparison to cable and satellite that charge more than twice that of streaming.
But, the small price comes at a large price. Customers have little option when it comes to networking their digital streaming. Even though they are paying for a service, the service is limited. Customers are restricted from accessing certain shows after their release date, restricted from fast-forwarding through commercials, and restricted from certain channels that refuse to release their show’s rights.
With cable or satellite, not only can customers DVR their favorite shows (and be certain they will be able to watch the show whenever they have the time), they can also use the On Demand feature that houses most current shows and movies for an extended period of time.
Network
Unfortunately for Internet TV companies like Netflix, none of them have created a perfect network platform. Whereas cable and satellite offer practically flawless service apart from a power outage, Internet TV relies upon the strength of a customer’s Wi-Fi to work.
Until Internet TV companies can work with Internet providers to supply viewers with smooth service, Internet TV will always be competing against itself. Without Internet, these Internet TV companies would be nonexistent. Yet, because of Internet, these companies struggle with providing customers with a clean stream.
If looking to join the “cable cutters,” beware that you get what you pay for.
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