Feature Video: A Beginner's Guide to Linux

On weekends, we often talk about security and privacy. Today is one of those days.

If you are looking to switch away from Windows, Linux may be the way for you to go. MacOS and even ChromeOS are more secure. Linux is the most secure (MacOS is related to Linux, and ChromeOS is a type of Linux) and by default the most private operating system.

If you do consider switching to Linux, here is a video that will be helpful:

[YouTube]

Linux is the most private and secure operating system, and if that's important to you, it's something to consider.

My Streaming Life keeps security and privacy in mind at all times. It should be important to everyone.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 3

Week 2 of the 2024 college football season is in the books, and there was an upset or two. But that's college football. Week 3 is this weekend, and actually began Thursday night with two games, and last night with another two. Today, 59 games are on the schedule. There are 18 Top 25 teams playing, with two games between ranked teams, including one last night. Between now and next Saturday, there are four more games.

This weekend's games will be broadcast over several networks. Here are the channels or networks you'll need to watch all the game this season:

• ABC
• ACC Network
• Big Ten Network
• CBS
• CBS Sports Network
• The CW
• ESPN
• ESPN2
• ESPN U
• ESPN+
• Fox
• Fox Sports 1
• Max
• NBC
• Peacock
• SEC Network
• truTV

Here's how to get the channels to watch college football this week:

ABC

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (8 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ACC Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

Big Ten Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

CBS

• Antenna (free)
• Paramount Plus (Premium) $12/month
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

CBS Sports Network

• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Ultimate) ($136/month)

The CW

• Antenna (free)
• Not available streaming.

ESPN, ESPN2

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ESPNU

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Vidgo (Plus) ($70/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Elite with Sports Plus) ($100/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

ESPN+

• ESPN+ (standalone) ($11/month)
• Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($15/month)

Fox

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (19 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Fox Sports 1

• Sling TV (Blue + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Max

• Max (with Bleacher Report Sports Add-on) ($22/month)

NBC

• Antenna (free)
• Peacock (Plus) ($12/month)
• Sling TV (11 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Peacock

• Peacock is its own service, and can be used to watch NBC live programming with the $12/month plan.

SEC Network

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

truTV

• Sling TV (Blue) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

That's this week in Division 1-A/FBS college football, and covers the networks that are carrying college football games this weekend. My Streaming Life focuses on college football during this time of year. Of course, we'll cover next week's games next weekend.

Cutting the Cord: Free services offer a lot of content

Yesterday, I offered three tips for cord cutting newbies. I'd like to revisit that and expand on one tip.

Tip 1 was "Assess Your Viewing Habits." The idea was to understand your needs to help you choose the right streaming services to replace your cable subscription.

Most people think of this as picking between a nirtual multichannel video programming distributor (vMVPD) such as Sling TV, Hulu+Live TV, YouTube TV, fubo, or even Philo. While that is the route most people will take, my experience is that a pay service isn't always necessary. Today, live major sports channels such as ESPN do require a pay live streaming service. However, it's possible to find a lot of entertainment without a vMVPD service.

Current cable channels with new programming will require one, but when you cut the cord, try asking yourself if you really do need one of those. Check into the free streaming options on your streaming device. Each of the major platforms have their own section of free channels. Additionally, there are apps you can install such as Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Tubi, and other free ad-supported television (FAST) servcies that offer a lot of content.

If you feel you do need a pay TV streaming service, go ahead. Consider if you need it year round, or only for a month or two at a time, or just occasionally through the year. The rest of the time, look into the free options. You may find you can save a lot of money and watch a lot of good TV content by using the FAST services. My Streaming Life doesn't cost a lot. Yours doesn't have to either.

Cutting the Cord: 3 Essential Tips for Newbies

If you haven't yet cut the cord, but are considering it, you know that cutting the cord can seem daunting. However, with a little planning, it's easier than you might think. Here are three essential tips to make your transition smooth and enjoyable.

Tip 1: Assess Your Viewing Habits

Before you ditch cable, take some time to analyze your current TV watching habits.

• What channels do you watch regularly?
• Are there specific shows or networks you can't live without?
• How often do you watch live TV versus on-demand content?

Understanding your needs will help you choose the right streaming services and devices to replace your cable subscription.

Tip 2: Research Streaming Services and Devices

The streaming landscape is vast and varied, so it's important to do your research before committing to any particular service.

• Popular options include Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and many more.
• Consider factors such as cost, content library, device compatibility, and user interface when making your decision.
• Don't forget to explore free streaming services like Pluto TV and Tubi, which offer a surprising amount of content at no cost.
• You'll also need a streaming device to access these services on your TV. Popular choices include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast.

Tip 3: Get a Good Antenna

Even if you're cutting the cord, you can still enjoy free, over-the-air broadcast channels with a good antenna. This is a great way to access local news, sports, and popular network shows without paying a dime.

• The type of antenna you need will depend on your location and proximity to broadcast towers.
• Do some research to find the best antenna for your area.

Conclusion:

Cutting the cord can save you a significant amount of money each month while still providing access to a wide variety of entertainment options. By following these three tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful cord-cutting experience. Remember, it's all about finding the right combination of streaming services, devices, and antenna to meet your individual needs and preferences. My Streaming Life is a Happy one, and I hope yours will be as well.

Cord Cutting Confessions: My Sling TV Relapse and Recovery

Alright, cord cutters, let's talk about temptation. During college football season, I do the unthinkable – I resubscribe to Sling TV. It's my ESPN fix, my way to keep up with the game-day action. But the rest of the year? Nope, I'm a free-streaming bird.

I get it, the appeal of Sling, YouTube TV, and the like is strong. All those familiar cable channels at your fingertips? It's like a warm blanket on a cold night. But I cut the cord back in 2011. Back then, no vMVPDs existed to tempt me. It was cold turkey, and I learned to live without those channels, discovering awesome streaming alternatives along the way.

So, what happened this year? Sling lured me back in with sports, but then I started watching the news. It's an election year, my emotions are running high, and that one news channel? It was speaking my language. For a bit, it was glorious.

Then the addiction kicked in. I was glued to those channels, reliving the bad old days of cable news obsession. I even got sick this weekend and found myself reaching for the remote again.

But then it hit me: I don't need this. I can get actual news elsewhere, without the drama and the endless opinion pieces. I turned off the TV, and you know what? I felt better.

My Streaming Life is for entertainment, not agitation. So, I'm back to my cord-cutting roots, and I'm feeling good about it. Remember, fellow cord cutters, we're in this together. Resist the siren song of cable, and embrace the freedom of streaming!

YouTube TV's Ascent and My Personal Streaming Choice (not the same)

According to NextTV, YouTube TV has risen to the 4th largest live TV streaming provider in the US, gaining 50,000 new subscribers in the last quarter. With NFL football back in season, and the platform's appeal to sports fans bolstered by its NFL Sunday Ticket offering, further growth is anticipated.

Notably, at $73, YouTube TV stands as the most affordable option among vMVPDs carrying major broadcast networks.

Personally, I opt for Sling TV. While it doesn't provide ABC, CBS, Fox, or NBC in most areas, I circumvent this with an antenna. My Streaming Life uses Sling's sports packages during college football season because it perfectly suits my needs.

Windows 10's Expiration Date: The AI-Powered Push Towards Windows 11

The clock is ticking for Windows 10 users. With support ending in October 2025, the pressure to upgrade to Windows 11 is mounting. While many, myself included, prefer the familiar Windows 10 interface and have concerns about Microsoft's data collection practices, the reality is that Windows 11 is the future. And Microsoft seems intent on making that transition as enticing (or perhaps, unavoidable) as possible.

The biggest hurdle for many has been Windows 11's demanding hardware requirements. Recent news suggests Microsoft won't be easing up on these anytime soon. In fact, it's looking like the experience for those running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware might get even worse. Why? It all comes down to Microsoft's ambitious AI plans.

Microsoft is going all-in on AI, with 'Copilot+ PCs' set to become the new standard. These machines will require specific hardware to handle advanced AI tools, and Microsoft seems keen to drive hardware upgrades to support this vision. The reintroduction of features like 'Recall', which essentially records your PC activity for AI-powered search, further emphasizes the need for powerful hardware.

So, is Microsoft intentionally making life difficult for Windows 10 holdouts to boost sales of new PCs and AI subscriptions? It's certainly a possibility. The next year will be crucial in revealing how this all plays out. Will Windows 11 adoption surge? Will the AI features be compelling enough to justify upgrades? And what will the experience be like for those who stick with Windows 10 on older hardware?

One thing's for sure: Microsoft's focus is firmly on the future of Windows 11 and AI. Those clinging to Windows 10 might find themselves increasingly left behind. If you're in that camp, it might be time to start considering your options.

Escape Windows 11 Hardware Woes: Linux to the Rescue

With all the hardware issues and privacy concerns around Windows 11, some may be looking for another option. If ease of use is your primary concern, ChromeOS is a good, cheap option. If you are comfortable with Web apps, ChromeOS (which is a version of Linux) may be for you.

If privacy or app availability is your primary concern, you may want to go with a full-blown Linux installation. Sounds scary, huh? Well, it can be. But it can also be done successfully, and easily.

Explaining Computers recently had a video (20 minutes long) called "Switching to Linux: A Beginner's Guide." It may be worth a look:

[YouTube]

My Streaming Life doesn't involve a lot of computers when it comes to actual streaming. But, I do use Windows, ChromeOS, Mac, and Linux computers. I like Linux. Yes, it's different, but it's easy to get used to.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 2

The two-week long Week 1 of the 2024 college football season finished up last weekend. Week 2 is this weekend, and actually began last night with three games. Today, 75 games are on the schedule. There are only a few Top 25 matchups, with most of the Top 25 facing non-conference opponents in what are generally considered "tune up games." Oh, and there are five more games before next Saturday, with two next Thursday and three next Friday.

This weekend's games will be broadcast over several networks. Here are the channels or networks you'll need to watch all the game this season:

• ABC
• ACC Network
• Big Ten Network
• CBS
• CBS Sports Network
• The CW
• ESPN
• ESPN2
• ESPN U
• ESPN+
• Fox
• Fox Sports 1
• Max
• NBC
• Peacock
• SEC Network
• truTV

Here's how to get the channels to watch college football this week:

ABC

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (8 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ACC Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

Big Ten Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

CBS

• Antenna (free)
• Paramount Plus (Premium) $12/month
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

CBS Sports Network

• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Ultimate) ($136/month)

The CW

• Antenna (free)
• Not available streaming.

ESPN, ESPN2

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ESPNU

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Vidgo (Plus) ($70/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Elite with Sports Plus) ($100/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

ESPN+

• ESPN+ (standalone) ($11/month)
• Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($15/month)

Fox

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (19 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Fox Sports 1

• Sling TV (Blue + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Max

• Max (with Bleacher Report Sports Add-on) ($22/month)

NBC

• Antenna (free)
• Peacock (Plus) ($12/month)
• Sling TV (11 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Peacock

• Peacock is its own service, and can be used to watch NBC live programming with the $12/month plan.

SEC Network

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

truTV

• Sling TV (Blue) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

That's this week in Division 1-A/FBS college football, and covers the networks that are carrying college football games this weekend. My Streaming Life focuses on college football during this time of year. We'll cover next week's games next weekend.

The Free TV Challenge: Can I Cut the Cord Completely?

The other day, a wild idea popped into my head: what if I canceled every streaming service and embraced the world of free TV? It sounded liberating, and without overthinking it, I decided to go for it. But then, doubts started to creep in. Could I really live without my favorite shows? Would I be bored out of my mind?

Despite the hesitation, I'm determined to give it a shot for at least a month. But when exactly should I start this free TV adventure?

First, let's assess the current situation. Here's a breakdown of my subscriptions and why I haven't canceled them yet:

• Frndly TV: Already canceled! I snagged a yearly discount but barely used it. It'll be gone for good in November.
• Hulu: I'm on the $8/month plan and pause it occasionally. I'll be done with it by the end of college football season.
• ESPN Plus: Essential for college football games, but I'll drop it in December after the season ends.
• Disney Plus: It's part of a bundle with Hulu and ESPN Plus, so it's actually cheaper to keep it for now. Once ESPN Plus goes, so does Disney Plus.
• Prime Video: This one's tricky. It comes with my Amazon Prime membership, which I've had forever. I'll cancel Prime in January and see if I miss the shipping benefits enough to justify keeping it.
• Paramount Plus: Another bonus! It's included with Walmart Plus, which I use a lot. I'm keeping this one only because I'm keeping Walmart Plus.
• Peacock TV: Canceled, but it's still lingering thanks to a technicality with my internet provider. It'll be gone soon.

Other services I occasionally use are currently inactive:

• Netflix
• Max
• Discovery Plus
• Apple TV Plus
• AMC Pus
• Starz

There is one other service I use occastionally: Sling TV. That service is my source for ESPN during football season. I haven't needed it since the first couple of weeks.

So, as it stands, I can officially go free TV in January after college football season wraps up. I could probably do it now, but I'm not quite ready. New year, new me, new approach to TV. My Streaming Life has always been about saving money, and maybe 2025 will be the year I take it to the next level.

The Streaming Squeeze: Users Cut Back

Recent studies have indicated that due to price increases in popular streaming services, a large percentage of users are planning to cut back on the number of streaming services to which they subscribe.

This trend aligns with a recent shift where more users have been opting for fewer services. While major streaming services might not be significantly impacted, smaller niche services could face challenges as users prioritize their spending.

I've always tried to keep the number of pay services to which I subscribe down. Right now, the only service to which I am subscribing and will allow to renew is the Disney Trio (ad supported), which is: 

• Hulu (a primary source of TV content for me)
• ESPN Plus (for games during the college football season)
• Disney Plus (really cheap when included with the bundle)

I may subscribe to Sling TV, if a game I really want to watch is only available on ESPN, but so far this season, that hasn't happened. I will subscribe eventually, I'm sure, but as of today, I don't have a subscription.

My Streaming Life doesn't need to be expensive, and it isn't. 

Sports networks are driving up the cost of cable and streaming

Yesterday, I mentioned that the cost of local channels had contriubuted to the increase in cost for cable, and for major streaming services. I didn't say much about the other thing that has driven up the cost of pay TV: sports, particularly ESPN.

The rising cost of content, particularly sports channels, is the main reason for the significant price increases in cable TV and streaming services since 2010. Cable networks are demanding more money to compensate for decreasing subscribers, leading to higher prices even for services without sports channels. This struggle has also resulted in frequent blackouts on various platforms. The conflict is likely to persist as cord-cutting continues to affect the cable TV industry.

It's also affecting streaming services. For example, the most popular live TV streaming service is YouTube TV. It's $73/month, and that's one of the cheapest services. Hulu+Live TV, Fubo, and DirecTBV Stream cost even more. Only Sling TV at $40 is cheaper, of the services that carry sports programming such as ESPN.

Compare that to Philo, which is only $28, and includes no sports, but a lot of entertainment content. Frndly TV is even cheaper, although its lineups is smaller than Philo.

If you want local channels and major sports, you will have to spend at least $40/month, if you have your own TV antenna. If not, you'll have to spend at least $73/month. Is that difference worth the content? That's for you to decide. If you don't watch sports, or can get local channels with an antenna, you can save a lot of money streaming.

My Streaming Life doesn't cost that much. Yours may not need to either.

Broadcast networks are driving up the cost of cable and streaming

Recently, Cord Cutters News had an article that highlighted one of the reasons pay TV, both cable and streaming, is going up: the cost of the four major broadcast networks. The article highlights the increasing cost of streaming and cable TV services, attributing it largely to the rising cost of local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC.

DISH recently announced a price hike, citing the escalating fees demanded by local broadcasters as the primary reason. This trend isn't limited to cable and satellite providers; streaming services like YouTube TV and Fubo have also been forced to increase their prices due to the same issue:

In a statement from DISH listing the reasons why they must raise the price, DISH blamed local TV stations "First, the local broadcasters of ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC stations continually force us to pay more for their channels or threaten to remove them from our customers. The cost for these channels has risen over 200% over the past 5 years."

While multiple factors contribute to the rising costs, the article emphasizes that the cost of local channels is a major driver. This is why I'm happy to have an antenna. It gets me access to the major broadcast networks, and over 30 other local channels. My Streaming Life is supported by free over the air TV. 

NOW it's been a month

It's been a month now, with NOW. On the first of August, I switched my Internet provider from Xfinity to NOW Internet. Of course, NOW Internet is a service of Xfinity, so I essentially changed from Xfinity to Xfinity. I also cut the bill in half.

It still seems odd to me that I can switch from Xfinity to Xfinity and save money, but here we are.

NOW Internet is cheaper for a few reasons:

• It is a budget pre-paid Internet service, similar to Cricket by AT&T or Visible by Verizon.
• It has limited speeds, but those speeds are more than enough for streaming.
• The equipment is provided, which is nice, but it is refurbished. However, the equipment works.

Bottom line: NOW Internet is a good service for $30/month. I got my bill for September last night:

After a month, I'm happy I made the change. My Streaming Life is good, and now it's cheaper than it was.

Privacy: An unexpected solution

Rob Braxman, the Internet Privacy Guy, suggests an interesting way to increase privacy.

[YouTube]

My Streaming Life believes stongly in security and privacy. That's why I often post about security and privacy on weekends. Streaming if my focus, security and privacy is a major concern.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 1, part II

The 2024 college football season kicked off last weekend, but this is still Week One. Hey, don't blame me; I didn't come up with this. There are 90 Division 1-A/FBS games this weekend, with 21 played Thursday and six yesterday. Today, 67 games are scheduled, with one each on Sunday and Monday.

These games are all part of the two-week long Week 1.

Today's games will be broadcast over several networks. Here are the channels or networks you'll need to watch all the game this season:

• ABC
• ACC Network
• Big Ten Network
• CBS
• CBS Sports Network
• The CW
• ESPN
• ESPN2
• ESPN U
• ESPN+
• Fox
• Fox Sports 1
• NBC
• Peacock
• SEC Network
• truTV

Here's how to get the channels to watch college football this week:

ABC

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (8 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ACC Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

Big Ten Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

CBS

• Antenna (free)
• Paramount Plus (Premium) $12/month
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($75/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

CBS Sports Network

• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Ultimate) ($136/month)

The CW

• Antenna (free)
• Not available streaming.

ESPN, ESPN2

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

ESPNU

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Vidgo (Plus) ($70/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Elite with Sports Plus) ($100/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($106/month)

ESPN+

• ESPN+ (standalone) ($11/month)
• Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($15/month)

Fox

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (19 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Fox Sports 1

• Sling TV (Blue + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

NBC

• Antenna (free)
• Peacock (Plus) ($12/month)
• Sling TV (11 markets only) ($45/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)

Peacock

• Peacock is its own service, and can be used to watch NBC live programming with the $12/month plan.

SEC Network

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($80/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

truTV

• Sling TV (Blue) ($40/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

That's this week in Division 1-A/FBS college football, and covers the networks that are carrying college football games this weekend. My Streaming Life focuses on college football during this time of year.

Which streaming service for football?

Last week, I discussed my though process in determining which streaming service to use for watching college football. As it turns out, I didn't watch games last weekend -- life interfered -- so I didn't subscribe.

There were games last night (I didn't watch any) and games tonight (I don't plan to watch; other stuff going on), but tomorrow, I do plan to watch some football. My primary game of interest is on ABC, and I get that over the air (actually, through AirTV and the Sling TV app).

I may watch a game later in the day on one of the ESPN channels, and that will be the driving factor regarding when I actually start my subscription. If I watch the 4:00 PM game on ESPNU, then I'll subscribe to the service that will take me through the college football season. And that service will be Sling TV.

I'm planning on starting with Sling Orange with Sports Extra. That'll get me ESPN along with SEC Network and such. The cost will be $51. Initially, I won't need any of the Blue package to get what I want. If that does happen, I'll upgrade when necessary, and that'll bring the total to $70. That's still $3 cheaper than YouTube TV. As I have an antenna, this makes the cheaper service a viable option for me.

Of course, if Saturday's plans wind up with me being somewhere else that afternoon -- plans change all the time; not mine, but those that impact me -- then I will miss the 4:00 PM game and skip subscribing, at least for the day. I'll re-examine the situation when the time comes, but the plan is to use Sling TV again this year as my go-to for college football games.

My Streaming Life seems to revolve around college football during the fall. I'm good with that.

Farewell, Tablo: How AirTV Became My Top Pick

Yesterday, I got an email from Tablo celebrating the one-year anniversary of their latest devices. Since I'm still using an older model, they offered me a discount on an upgrade.

I've enjoyed Tablo for a couple of reasons: it's a solid DVR with a user-friendly interface, and it used to let me watch my antenna TV from anywhere.

I also have an AirTV, which runs on the Sling TV app. Initially, it didn't allow out-of-home streaming to devices like Roku or Fire TV, only to mobile devices. Thankfully, that's changed, and now I can stream AirTV anywhere.

The main reason I haven't upgraded my Tablo is that the newest models dropped out-of-home streaming, limiting it to devices on the same network.

That's a dealbreaker for me. I'm happy with AirTV's out-of-home feature, and recent Sling TV app updates mean I'm no longer bombarded with subscription reminders since I only use it for free content and AirTV.

While I appreciate Tablo's interface and performance, AirTV's ability to let me watch my antenna TV both at home and at my family's places makes it my go-to choice. I rely heavily on my antenna for streaming, so that flexibility is key.

Sorry, Tablo, but AirTV wins this round. My Streaming Life is now on Team AirTV.

Streamlining My Streaming: A Cost-Effective Approach

I'm currently subscribed to a few streaming services:

• Hulu/Disney+/Max bundle (soon switching to Hulu/Disney+/ESPN+ for football season)
• Frndly TV

I also have access to a few services included with other memberships:

• Prime Video (with Amazon Prime)
• Paramount+ (with Walmart+)
• Peacock TV (leftover from Xfinity, will likely lose access soon)

For the college football season, I plan to add either Sling Orange or YouTube TV temporarily.

Cutting Costs and Simplifying

I'm making some changes to reduce my streaming expenses:

• Cancelling Frndly TV in November (saving $9/month)
• Downgrading Hulu to the standard plan after football season (saving $7-9/month)
• Suspending Hulu periodically when there's nothing I want to watch (saving $8/month)

I'll keep Paramount+ as long as it's included with Walmart+. I won't re-subscribe to Peacock TV. I'll keep Prime Video as long as I have Amazon Prime.

The Service Rotation

In the new year, I'll only have Paramount+ and Prime Video. Other services will go into a rotation where I subscribe for a month at a time when there's something specific I want to watch:

• Netflix
• Max
• Disney+
• Discovery+
• Apple TV+
• Hulu
• Peacock TV
• AMC+
• Starz

Embracing Free Options

I find myself using free ad-supported television (FAST) services and my antenna with AirTV more and more. This, combined with my service rotation strategy, will allow me to watch plenty of TV while significantly reducing my streaming costs.

Conclusion

My Streaming Life will be just as fulfilling, but much more affordable. By being mindful of my subscriptions and utilizing free options, I can enjoy great content without breaking the bank.

Data Caps are the New Cash Cow for ISPs

As internet usage explodes, so does the risk of hitting data caps. With 20% of users expected to reach 1TB per month by year's end, ISPs like Comcast see a goldmine in overage fees. Cord Cutters News recently reported that Comcast could make over $160-million a year in overage fees:

With this, Comcast and other cable companies stand to make a lot more money as they charge customers who hit their data caps extra money. For each 50 GB of data customers use over the 1.2 TB cap, Comcast will charge you $10 with a max of $100 a month. With the growth of data usage, this could become very profitable for internet providers.

If you want unlimited data, Comcast will charge you at least $25 a month as the cheapest way to get unlimited data, but if you use your own modem, it will cost you $30 extra a month.

This trend highlights the growing disconnect between internet speeds and actual usage, leaving consumers to grapple with the rising cost of staying connected in the digital age.

I solved the Comcast/Xfinity data caps issue by switching to ... Xfinity. Okay, Xfinity's NOW Internet service. It's unlimited data, modem included, and $30/month. And no, you don't have to be a senior citizen or be eligible for a government program to get it. It's available for everyone, and I switch at the first of the month. My 100 Mbps service for $30 flat rate works well for me. My Streaming Life is good.

Security and Privacy: Never install these apps on Windows

I've used Windows computers since Windows version 2 (Windows 2.03) in 1988 (Windows 2.03 was released in late 1987, but I didn't get it until early 1988). I don't use it much anymore, mostly because of the security and privacy concerns, but many family members do, and most people do. If you use Windows (and most of you do), you should avoid anything that reduces the security or privacy of your device even more.

Recently, JayzTwoCents had a video on YouTube talking about software to never install on Windows. He made some great points, and I agree with his recommendations about software to avoid. Note that the ending is a little odd, but the point is valid.

[YouTube]

If you use Windows computers, stay as safe and secure as you can. Avoid the scams. My Streaming Life includes a focus on security and privacy. You should keep security and privacy in mind in all of your online activity.

Security and Privacy: Is multi-factor authentication a scam?

Conventional wisdom is that multi-factor authentication is a good idea, and makes your logins more secure. But, like everything else, there's more to it than that.

Yes, multi-factor authentication is good. But how companies go about it can be a problem, according to privacy expert Rob Braxman:

[YouTube]

Security is very important. Privacy is important. Not everyone understands that. My Streaming Life includes efforts to keep secure and private, and so should yours.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 1/Zero

The 2024 college football season kicks off this weekend. There are only four Division 1-A/FBS games this weekend, but there are 21 next Thursday and another six on Friday. Today, number 10 Florida State plays in Ireland, the only ranked team playing today. Five more ranked teams will play on Thursday and Friday.

Today's games, along with next weeks, are officially part of Week 1, although today's games are often called "Week Zero."

Today's games will be broadcast over several networks. Here are the channels or networks you'll need to watch all the games:

• CBS Sports Network
• ESPN
• Fox Sports 1

The Thursday and Friday games will be on:

• ACC Network
• Big Ten Network
• CBS Sports Network
• ESPN+
• Fox
• SEC Network
• truTV

Here's how to get the channels to watch college football this week:

ACC Network

• Sling TV (Orange + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

Big Ten Network

• Sling TV (Blue + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

CBS Sports Network

• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Ultimate) ($139/month)

ESPN, ESPN2

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)

ESPN+

• ESPN+ (standalone) ($11/month)
• Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($15/month)

Fox

• Antenna (free)
• Sling TV (19 markets only) ($45/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)

Fox Sports 1

• Sling TV (Blue + Sports Extra) ($51/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Entertainment) ($80/month)

SEC Network

• Sling TV (Orange) ($40/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• Fubo (Pro) ($75/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

truTV

• Sling TV (Blue) ($40/month)
• Hulu+Live TV ($77/month)
• YouTube TV ($73/month)
• DirecTV (Choice) ($116/month)

That's this week in Division 1-A/FBS college football, and covers the networks that are carrying college football games this weekend and the early games next weekend. My Streaming Life focuses on college football during this time of year. Being from the southeast, it's in my blood.

College Football Kickoff: The Streaming Service Scramble

I don't normally use live streaming services -- what could be called "streaming cable" but is technically called "vMVPD" (Virtual multichannel video programming distributors) -- during the year. This changes during the fall. I am a big fan of college football, and am looking forward to the 2024 season.

With games beginning this weekend, I have a decision to make: Which streaming service to watch sports channels?

One option is on hold now: Venu Sports has been prevented from launching. That leaves some other options, and I'll look at those now.

• Sling TV: This has been my go-to service for sports for one simple reason: cost. Sling Orange is $40/month. That includes ESPN and ESPN2. Additional ESPN channels are available with the $11 Sports Extra, bringing the cost up to $51/month. To get the Fox Sports channels on Sling TV, the base cost is $55/month, and the Sports Extra adds another $15 to that cost, meaning $70 for all the sports. Since I have AirTV and an antenna, I get local channels with Sling, right in the app. If I add ESPN Plus, that's another $11, bringing it to $81.
• YouTube TV: This is probably the best vMVPD/streaming cable service. It's certainly the most popular. At $73/month, it's more than the Sling Orange+Blue package, but it includes local channels. If I didn't have an antenna to watch the broadcast networks, this would be the go-to service. Oh, and since I need ESPN Plus, the total actually will be $84/month.
• Hulu Plus Live TV: At $77/month, this is even more than YouTube TV. However, I already have Hulu anyway, meaning the net cost is only $69/month, the difference between standard Hulu and Hulu Plus Live TV. ESPN+ and Disney Plus make this a viable option.
• Fubo: At $80 for the Pro plan, this is the second most costly service. Price is a factor with me, and I can get what I want cheaper. Fubo is a good service, but for my needs, it's overpriced. Add the $11 for ESPN Plus and it's just not feasible.
• DirecTV Stream: At $106, this is the most costly service. The cost is driven primarily by the regional sports networks (RSNs) which aren't important to me. For that reason, I'm going with cheaper services. Adding $11 for ESPN Plus bring it to $117/month. That's too much for what I want.

So, which is my service of choice? Which service will I choose by noon tomorrow when the season kicks off?

I was going to say Sling TV, but YouTube TV is a better service for $3/more. And then Hulu is actually the cheapest because I'm already paying $8/month for standard Hulu. Adding the Live TV option gives me everything I need for only $69 more, which is $1 less than Sling TV, and $4 less than YouTube TV. Plus it adds ESPN Plus, which is another bonus.

There is a downside to Hulu Plus Live TV. Sometimes on weekends, I am away from home, and Hulu doesn't always let me watch Hulu Plus Live TV at another residence. YouTube TV has the same downside, unless I connect the device to my network, then take it to the other network to watch it. Sling TV doesn't have this problem.

What all this boils down to is that I may not watch football this weekend. Yes, there are some games, but not many, and I may have other things going on. So, it may be that it's next week before I make my decision. My Streaming Life involves college football during the fall, and it's nice to have options on how to fulfill that.

Venu Blocked: A Win for Sling, But What About Us Sports Fans?

The sports streaming world was buzzing with the news that Venu, the highly anticipated new platform backed by Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery, got its launch blocked by a judge.  As someone who relies on Sling TV for my sports fix, I've got some mixed feelings about this.

Venu vs. Sling: What Was the Difference, Anyway?

Venu was promising to be a one-stop shop for sports fans, bundling together ESPN, Fox Sports, and TNT, among others. This was appealing because it meant no more juggling multiple services to catch all the games. Sling, while it offers a decent variety, still requires some channel-hopping and add-on packs to get everything.

Venu also had the potential to be more affordable. Sling's base packages are pretty cheap, but the cost adds up fast once you start adding sports extras. Venu was rumored to be priced competitively, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious fans.

So, the Injunction: Good or Bad?

On the one hand, this delay for Venu is good news for Sling. It eliminates a major competitor, at least for now.  But as a consumer, I'm a bit disappointed.  More competition usually means better prices and features for us.

Also, Venu's blockage raises some questions:

• Is this really about protecting consumers from a monopoly, or is it just big companies battling it out?
• Will this delay push the big networks to improve their existing streaming options, or just keep the status quo?
• And most importantly, will we ever see a truly comprehensive, affordable sports streaming service?

For Now, It's Sling Time

Until we get some answers, Sling remains my go-to for sports.  It's not perfect, but it gets the job done.  Hopefully, this whole Venu situation will spark some positive changes in the streaming landscape, giving us fans more choices and better value in the long run. My Streaming Life has more sports options than it had in 2011. I'm hoping however this resolves, we have more options going forward.

Air TV over Tablo Connect

I loved Tablo for its simplicity and its "Tablo Connect" feature, which let me watch TV from a streaming device at a different location. I could easily take my Tablo to a family member's house and enjoy my home TV setup.

Unfortunately, Tablo Connect was discontinued with the launch of their new devices. It's still available on older models, but not on the current lineup, which is a major disappointment.

Yesterday, I switched to Air TV by Sling TV and found it to be a superior replacement, at least for now. Setting it up was a breeze - all I had to do was install the app and log in. With Tablo Connect, I had to connect the device to my local network first, making Air TV much more convenient.

While Sling TV apps have had their issues in the past, I haven't experienced any problems with Air TV so far. I'll continue testing it over the next few days, but I'm optimistic.

I'll miss Tablo, but the effortless setup of Air TV makes the switch worthwhile. My Streaming Life is enhanced with over-the-air content, and Air TV is the perfect solution for that.

Still cold on Fire TV

My streaming journey has involved a wide variety of devices over the years: Roku, Apple TV, TiVo, Simple TV, Chromecast, Mi Box, and more. While I've dabbled with Amazon's Fire TV sticks, I've never fully embraced them.

In my experience, Fire TV devices, especially earlier models, were noticeably slower than other options. While some devices like the Simple TV and early Roku Sticks also suffered from sluggishness, Fire TV sticks consistently felt underpowered compared to my top-tier Roku devices and the premium Apple TV.

This negative experience soured my opinion of streaming sticks in general, but the Roku Streaming Stick+ proved me wrong. It delivered excellent performance, showcasing that the issue wasn't with the stick format itself, but rather with the specific models' capabilities.

I acknowledge that many people love their Fire TV sticks, and I'm glad they've found a device that works for them. However, my experience has been consistently disappointing, with Fire TV devices often feeling sluggish and underperforming in comparison to my Roku devices.

It's worth noting that Amazon has made strides in recent years, and the Fire TV Stick 4K is a respectable device. After seven years of lackluster performance, the last three years have seen improvements in Fire TV devices.

Perhaps one day I'll incorporate a Fire TV Stick into my regular streaming setup, but not today. My Streaming Life is perfectly content without it.

Why People Stick with Cable

Why do people keep cable TV rather than move to streaming? According to one report from February 2024, the top reason people keep cable TV is to watch live sports:

Watching live sports on cable was the main reason that has kept Americans from getting rid of cable as of 2022, according to 19.5 percent of respondents to a survey. Second common factor was watching live entertainment events, such as the award shows, with around 11.7 percent of people interviewed.

You may be thinking, "Can't they get live sports and entertainment from a streaming service?" Absolutely. Sling TV was the first live major streaming service, and it offers live sports. YouTube TV is the largest of those services, and it's a good option for sports as well. However, cable can sometimes be cheaper, especially when bundled with internet. Here's why:

• Bundling discounts: Cable companies often offer significant discounts when you bundle TV and internet together. This can make the overall cost lower than subscribing to internet separately and then adding a streaming service on top.
• Promotional pricing: Cable companies frequently offer promotional rates for new customers, which can make cable seem more affordable initially.
• Perception: Cable advertised prices don't include hidden fees. Streaming services generally have transparent pricing, while cable companies are notorious for hidden fees that can inflate the advertised price. For these people, cable is not cheaper, but they think it is.
• Familiarity: Some people are used to cable and are reluctant to change, even knowing they could save money.

Ultimately, whether cable or streaming is cheaper depends on your specific needs and the deals available in your area. It's worth comparing prices and considering factors like channel selection, DVR options, and contract terms before making a decision. My Streaming Life began as a way to save money. It's been very successful.

YouTube's Demonetization Algorithm and Missing Videos

A couple of months back, Tyler the Antenna Man (who I follow on YouTube) posted about his channel being demonitized. That's been a thing going around. A lot of good YouTube channels that focus on streaming are being demonitized. Lon Seidman of Lon.TV, Michael Timmermann of Michael Saves, and Tyler the Antenna Man are three that come to mind.

I wasn't sure what the impact might be, until recently I looked an an older post here and found that the video from Tyler was no longer available. Apparently, that was one of the videos that was part of the demonitizaiton of his channel. Those impacted YouTube channels are removing the posts that YouTube has flagged for demonitizing the entire channel. Here's Tyler talking about it a couple of months ago:

[YouTube]

I know that many people will try to game the system. Years ago, I was approached by a blogger wanting to game the system by trading clicks on each others blogs. We both had pay per click ads, and he wanted to get paid though illegitimate means. I didn't play along, of course, but I saw early on that people will try to game the system. I don't believe Tyler, Michael, or Lon have been gaming the system. However, YouTube has some nefarious algorithm that says they are, and won't cooperate with them on resolving it.

YouTube (and Google, who hosts this Website by the way) are very difficult to deal with when it comes to resolving issues such as this. I don't know if the Google Ads I run on this Website will be penalized by my posting about this. Probably not, as I only make pennies from the ads. My Streaming Life enjoys good content from knowlegeable and helpful people. I hate that some flaw in some algorithm is hurting them.

Switching to NOW Internet: Same Great Service, Lower Bill

I recently made the switch from Xfinity Internet to NOW Internet. It's essentially the same service, but at a lower price. Think of it like Cricket and AT&T, or Visible and Verizon – same network, different brand.

The big perk for me is the included modem, which saves me the monthly rental fee I was paying before. I'm still using my own router because my mesh network offers better coverage. If you're already using Xfinity's equipment, the switch is easy, although you'll need to update your network settings.

Overall, I'm happy with the change. It's the same reliable service I've had for years, just with a lower bill. My Streaming Life is good.

Cut Streaming Costs and Watch More

Is it possible to stream more content while cutting down on streaming services? Absolutely! It's easier than you might think, and more people are realizing its benefits. While some choose to cancel services and stick with a few, I've found a different approach that allows me to enjoy a wider variety of content without breaking the bank.

Many popular streaming services offer great content, but subscribing to all of them year-round can get expensive. My solution? Subscribe for one month only. Here's how it works:

1. Choose your services: Select one or two services to start with. If you opt for two, avoid the pricier ones.
2. Subscribe and binge: Subscribe at the beginning of the month and watch as much as you can within those 30 days.
3. Cancel before renewal: Before the month ends, cancel your subscription to avoid being charged for another month.
4. Repeat with new services: Once your subscription ends, choose one or two different services and repeat the process.

By following this method, you can cycle through various services throughout the year while only paying for one or two at a time. This way, you get access to a wider range of content without a hefty monthly bill.

Let's take a look at some popular streaming services and their prices:

• Netflix: $6.99/month with ads, $15.49/month Standard, or $22.99 Premium
• Max: $15.99/month with ads, $19.99/month ad-free
• Disney+: $7.99/month with ads, $13.99/month no ads
• Paramount+: $5.99/month with ads, $11.99/month no ads
• Discovery+: $4.99/month with ads, $8.99/month no ads
• Apple TV+: $9.99/month
• Hulu: $7.99/month with ads, $17.99/month no ads
• Prime Video: $14.99/month or $139/year
• Peacock TV: $7.99/month with ads, $13.99/month no ads
• AMC+: $4.99/month with ads, $8.99/month no ads
• Starz: $9.99/month

If you subscribed to all these services simultaneously, you'd be paying around $95 per month. However, by rotating your subscriptions, you can enjoy all of them while averaging just around $10-$20 per month.

Flexibility is key with this approach. If you're not a big fan of a particular service, feel free to repeat one you enjoy more. The goal is to maximize your viewing pleasure while minimizing your expenses.

Of course, this method requires some effort and organization. If it seems like too much work, that's perfectly fine. You can still save significantly by cutting down to three or four services, like most people do. Ultimately, the best approach is the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Remember, taking control of your streaming budget doesn't mean sacrificing your entertainment. With a little planning, you can watch more and spend less, making your streaming experience more enjoyable and affordable. My Streaming Life benefits from the content of all of these services, at a fraction of the cost, because I rotate the services.

Venu Sports launching next week?

Venu Sports, a new streaming service launching on August 23, 2024, aims to change the way sports fans consume content. This joint venture from Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery will offer a wide range of live games, highlights, original programming, and documentaries from major professional and college sports leagues.

For $42.99 per month, subscribers will have access to channels such as ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, ACCN, ESPNEWS, ABC, Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports 2, Big Ten Network, TNT, TBS, and truTV. This extensive lineup provides comprehensive coverage of many popular sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, golf, and tennis.

Pros for Cord Cutters:

• Access to popular sports without a cable subscription.
• Potentially lower cost than cable or some live TV streaming services.
• A dedicated platform for sports enthusiasts.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Does not include all major networks and leagues (e.g., NBC and CBS).
• May be redundant for those who already subscribe to multiple streaming services.
• Relatively high price point for budget-conscious consumers.
• User experience and technical performance are yet to be determined.
• The competitive landscape demands continuous innovation.

Is Venu Sports Right for You?

Venu Sports is best suited for cord-cutters who are primarily interested in sports and willing to compromise on certain leagues or channels. It may also appeal to those looking to streamline their streaming subscriptions and potentially reduce costs.

Ultimately, the decision to subscribe depends on individual preferences and priorities. It's crucial to weigh the pros and cons and consider your household's specific needs. Take advantage of any free trials or promotional offers to assess Venu Sports firsthand and determine if it's the right fit for you. My Streaming Life will try it when college football season starts.

Looking at the new Google TV Streamer

Google is replacing its Chromecast with the new Google TV Streamer, a set-top box design that aligns with the trend seen in popular streaming devices like the Roku Ultra and Fire TV Cube. This shift brings a more stylish appearance and a redesigned remote for enhanced user experience.

Tom's Guide has an article comparing the Google TV Streamer to the now discontinued Chromecast:

Google is taking a similar approach with its TV Streamer to that of the Roku Ultra or Fire TV Cube in dropping the dongle design for a small set-top box chic. It comes in a slanted form that looks almost like a Wi-Fi router and will be available in Porcelain and Hazel, the latter of which will only be available in the U.S.

The remote is also getting a full redesign, which will be felt most prominently in the change in button layout as well in a new textured back for further ergonomics and comfort. The back and home buttons are now found directly next to each other below the d-pad with all of the audio buttons situated below them (and volume control is now on the face of the remote as opposed to the side).

The Google TV Streamer will also be one of the first among Google's streaming devices to use an Ethernet port, which also leverages Wi-Fi 5. Rounding out its I/O is a USB-C port for power and it will come equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, making it easy to pair with some of the best wireless earbuds.

The article covers performance, Google Gemini AI functionality, and smart home integrations. These advancements position the Google TV Streamer as a worthy upgrade from previous Chromecast devices. The real question is if the device is worth the twice as high price: $99 vs $49.

My Streaming Life has involved Chromecast a lot, particularly in the last year. I'm looking forward to finding out even more about the new Google TV Streamer.

Streaming on a Budget

Tired of expensive cable subscriptions with countless unwanted channels? There's a better way! Cutting the cord and exploring affordable entertainment options saves money and gives you control over your viewing experience. This guide explores how to stream on a budget and enjoy diverse content without breaking the bank.

The average American household spends hundreds on pay-TV subscriptions, but streaming services are on the rise. While convenient, these services are also increasing in cost. To counter this, many are turning to free entertainment options, saving money while enjoying a wider variety of content.

By ditching cable and traditional streaming services, you open doors to a flexible and affordable entertainment experience. You control what you watch, when you watch it, and your spending. Explore a wider variety of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and live events. Cutting the cord reveals new and exciting entertainment options that were previously hidden.

Here's how to embrace a world of free and low-cost entertainment:

Embrace Free Ad Supported Television (FAST) Streaming Services:

FAST services offer a surprising amount of content, including movies, TV shows, live TV, and even original content. Some popular FAST services include:

• Pluto TV: Vast selection of channels, including movies, TV shows, news, and sports.
• Tubi: Wide range of free movies and TV shows, focusing on classic and independent films.
• Crackle: Mix of original content and popular movies and TV shows.
• Xumo: Variety of channels, including news, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle content.
• Your Platform's FAST service:
• The Roku Channel: This is not limited to Roku devices, and offers a collection of free movies, TV shows, and live news channels.
• Google TV: Google TV integrates free channels from various providers like Pluto TV and Tubi directly into its Live tab. Additionally, Google TV offers its own curated free channels with news and entertainment content.
• Samsung TV Plus: Samsung smart TVs come with Samsung TV Plus, which offers a range of free channels across various genres.
• LG Channels: Similar to Samsung TV Plus, LG smart TVs include LG Channels, providing access to free content.
• Fire TV: Fire TV devices have access to many of the aforementioned multi-platform services as well as some exclusive free channels.

Utilize Your Local Library:

Libraries are goldmines for free entertainment. Many offer digital services like Kanopy, which provides access to independent films, documentaries, and educational videos. Other libraries offer Hoopla for streaming music, audiobooks, ebooks, and movies. Some even provide free access to streaming services like Acorn TV or Shudder.

Over-the-Air (OTA) TV:

Cut the cord without losing your favorite shows. OTA TV provides free, high-definition channels using an antenna. Enjoy popular networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, as well as local news and programming. OTA TV is easy to set up, delivers high-quality picture and sound, and saves money compared to cable or satellite subscriptions. Elevate your OTA experience with DVR platforms like AirTV, Tablo, HDHomeRun, and TiVo. These powerful devices let you record your favorite shows, pause live TV, and even stream your local channels to any device in your home or on the go. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of cord-cutting without missing out on the features you love.

Free Trials and Promotions:

Strategically use free trials to access premium content. Be selective and only sign up for trials that genuinely interest you. Take advantage of promotional offers and discounts for new subscribers. Set reminders to cancel before the trial ends to avoid unwanted charges. Consider sharing accounts with friends or family, but proceed with caution as it's often against the terms of service. Utilize online resources to find the best deals on streaming services.

Conclusion:

By embracing these strategies, you can create a diverse and affordable entertainment ecosystem tailored to your preferences. You'll gain control over your viewing habits, reduce monthly expenses, and discover a world of content beyond traditional pay-TV.

Cutting the cord empowers you to break free from restrictive contracts and endless channel lineups. Explore niche interests, support independent creators, and engage with content that resonates with your values. You'll also contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing electronic waste and minimizing your carbon footprint.

My Streaming Life mainly utilizes these free options. Why don't you consider taking the plunge and embarking on your cord-cutting journey! Embrace the freedom, flexibility, and financial benefits of exploring free and low-cost entertainment options. You're not just saving money; you're taking control of your entertainment destiny. Start exploring the vast world of possibilities today!

Cord Cutting Math: How to Calculate Your Savings

Many people over-complicate the math when figuring out the cost or benefit of cutting the cord. The key is to focus only on the expenses that change.

Think of it like this:

You only really care about what changes. If something remains the same before and after, then it doesn't figure into the calculations. If you do county them, they cancel out and don't impact the bottom line. If you do not county them, they don't impact the bottom line. Look for the differences, and only the differences.

Here's how this applies to cord cutting:

• Subscriptions you keep: If you already subscribe to Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, and continue to do so after cutting the cord, don't include them in your calculations. They're the same before and after. Cutting the cord doesn't impact the cost. Ignore any service you already have when you calculate the cost.
• Internet service: This is often a tricky part. Many cable companies offer bundled discounts, so your internet might become more expensive if you drop TV. The cost may change, so it can be a difference. Find out the new cost, and subtract the current cost. That's the impact.
• New streaming services: If you add new services after cutting the cord, those are additional expenses. Those have to be taken into consideration.

Getting an accurate picture:

Some websites and videos incorrectly include existing subscriptions like Netflix in their calculations. This only makes sense if you weren't already subscribed. Always compare the total expenses before and after cord cutting, focusing only on the items that change.

By keeping it simple, you'll get a clear picture of how much you're actually saving (or spending) in your new streaming life. My Streaming Life saves me a lot of money over cable. Yours may as well.

Secure computing: Resolving Linux issues

If you are concerned about privacy and security for your home computer, you may have considered moving to Linux for your computer. However, there can be issues with moving to Linux. Rob Braxman Tech has some suggestions:

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Why would you switch to Linux? It's a very stable and secure operating system, and doesn't have all the spyware and bloatware of Windows, Mac, or ChromeOS. My Streaming Life utilizes Linux for a local Plex server. I also have a Linux laptop. Consider Linux if you want to get away from the spying eyes of Microsoft.

Disney Plus is Cracking Down on Password Sharing

The streaming world is changing. People have been sharing passwords left and right, and it's costing these companies a lot of money. So, big names like Disney Plus are trying to put a stop to it. This could be a big turning point for how we all watch our favorite shows and movies.

Why is Password Sharing a Big Deal?

Turns out, a lot of us are doing it. Well, not me, but some of you. One study says 35% of homes with streaming were sharing passwords in 2022, and another says it's as high as 42% now.

The reason is simple: it saves money. With so many streaming services out there, it's way cheaper to split one account than pay for a bunch.

Mixed Results for Other Companies

Some streaming services have already tried to stop password sharing, with mixed results. Some got more subscribers at first, but who knows if that will last. Plus, a lot of people got mad when they couldn't share anymore.

Netflix tried to be nice about it, just reminding people of the rules. It worked a little, but not as well as cracking down harder.

Hulu went stricter, and it worked better, but people were really unhappy about it. And in case you forgot, Disney owns Hulu, so you should be prepared for this to be the way.

No one knows yet if stopping password sharing is good for business in the long run. Some companies say it is, others aren't so sure.

What Disney Plus is Doing

Starting in 2024, Disney Plus is going to make it harder to share passwords. They'll check where you're watching from and how many people are using your account at once.

They're also adding a "profile sharing" thing, so you can share your account with people who don't live with you. These profiles get their own watchlists and suggestions, but they're still tied to your main account.

It'll cost extra, but not as much as a whole new subscription. We don't know the exact price yet.

How This Affects You

If you share your Disney Plus with people outside your home, you'll have to pay more or get them their own profiles.

The profile sharing thing might be okay for some people, but it depends on how much it costs.

Some people might just cancel Disney Plus altogether.

The Times They Are A-Changin'

The way we watch TV is changing, and companies are trying to keep up. Cracking down on passwords is just one way they're trying to make money and stay in business.

If you're someone who cut the cord, you gotta stay on top of this stuff. You might need to change your plans or find other ways to watch what you want.

What's Next?

No one knows for sure how this will all play out. Will it stop password sharing? Will it make streaming services more money? Will it make things better or worse for viewers?

Let us know what you think about all this. Has Disney's crackdown messed with your watching? Are you thinking about canceling or switching? We're all in this together, so let's talk about it.