My Streaming Life

So, you're thinking about cutting the cable cord and joining the ranks of cord-cutters? That's a smart move! Free, high-definition TV is a major perk of ditching those ever-increasing cable bills. However, navigating the world of TV antennas can be a bit confusing, especially with some of the wild claims you might see. This post aims to clear the air and help you make informed choices, drawing inspiration from helpful resources like a recent blog post from Tablo TV that addressed common antenna myths. Myth #1: All Antennas Are Created Equal If you’re used to the plug-and-play nature of cable TV, you might assume any antenna will do the trick. But as Tablo TV discusses, that’s simply not the case. Antennas come in various shapes, sizes, and, most importantly, capabilities. Think about it: a small set of indoor "rabbit ears" is designed for a completely different scenario than a large, outdoor antenna mounted on your roof. Different antennas are built to capture sig...

For cord-cutters seeking a reliable and budget-friendly source of family-friendly entertainment, Frndly TV has long been a popular choice. Offering a curated selection of channels, including the beloved Hallmark lineup and a solid collection from A&E Networks, it has carved out a valuable niche in the streaming landscape. While the world of streaming presents a mix of free and subscription-based services, where some content overlap can naturally occur, Frndly TV's core strength lies in providing affordable access to a specific bundle of channels that typically require a paid subscription for live viewing. The latest news from Frndly TV is that they will be implementing a $1 per month price increase across all of their subscription plans. This change will take effect immediately for new subscribers and will impact existing customers starting on May 15, 2025. Here's a quick look at the current and upcoming monthly pricing: Plan Current Price New Price (Starting May 15...

I used to go to the movies a lot. When I worked in Jacksonville back in the 1980s, I would make the short drive south to Orange Park at least once a week. Unlike the theaters in Jacksonville, Orange Park boasted three different cinema locations within a couple of blocks, showcasing around 15 different movies. This meant I could almost always find something that caught my eye on the big screen. Over the years, however, my moviegoing habits have changed significantly, and now I rarely venture out to the theater. The last few years have only solidified this shift, as the experience of watching a movie at home has become increasingly appealing. There's the undeniable comfort of my own living room, the convenience of pausing for a bathroom break without missing a single frame, and the overall control I have over my viewing environment. The vast world of streaming services offers an incredible library of content right at my fingertips, making it easy to find something to watch without ...

Cutting the cord has become a smart way for many to save money on their TV entertainment. The rise of streaming services offers a plethora of options, from subscription-based powerhouses to entirely free platforms. In this ever-evolving landscape, DirecTV, a familiar name in the TV world, has thrown its hat into the free ring with MyFree DirecTV. But in a market already populated by giants like Pluto TV and Tubi, does this new contender offer something worthwhile for cord-cutters? Let's dive in and take a closer look. What is MyFree DirecTV? MyFree DirecTV is a free, ad-supported streaming service from DirecTV that doesn't require any paid subscription. It provides access to a selection of live linear channels spanning various categories and includes some on-demand content. The most significant draw, of course, is the price tag: absolutely nothing! The Channel Lineup: A Glimpse Inside MyFree DirecTV boasts a lineup that covers a decent range of interests. You'll find c...

In today's digital world, keeping our home computers secure can feel like a constant battle. We're bombarded with news of data breaches and malware threats, making us question every click and download. One of the fundamental ways operating systems try to protect us is by offering official app stores – curated marketplaces where software is (supposedly) vetted for safety. But when we limit ourselves to installing applications only from these official sources, which operating system truly offers the most secure experience for the average home user? Let's take a look at Windows 10, Windows 11, Linux, macOS, and ChromeOS under this specific lens. Comparing Security Based on Official Store Ecosystems: For this comparison, we're operating under a crucial rule: users on all platforms are sticking exclusively to their official app stores for installing new applications. This means the Microsoft Store for Windows, distribution-specific stores (like Ubuntu Software Center or ...

In my previous post, "7 Essential Tips for Cord-Cutters," I emphasized the importance of not oversubscribing to streaming services. But with so many tempting options available, how do you find the right balance and avoid exceeding your budget or feeling overwhelmed by content? This deep dive will explore the concept of oversubscription and provide practical strategies to help you create a fulfilling and cost-effective streaming experience. The Temptation of Oversubscribing The streaming landscape is a vast and ever-expanding universe of content, with new services and enticing free trials emerging constantly. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and subscribe to multiple services, especially when you're first starting your cord-cutting journey. I'll admit, I've fallen into this trap myself in the past. Eager to explore all the options, I signed up for more streaming services than I could realistically keep up with. The result? I rarely used some of...

A recent report from Cord Cutters News has presented a surprising finding: Amazon Prime Video is reportedly the top streaming service used by cord-cutters, according to their survey. While many of us in the cord-cutting community might instinctively think of Netflix as the reigning champion, this data suggests a different reality. For me, a cord-cutter since 2011 and an Amazon Prime member since its early days (well before Prime Video even existed), this news definitely makes me pause and consider the underlying reasons. My own relationship with Amazon Prime is firmly rooted in the convenience of free and fast shipping. The ability to order items and have them arrive quickly has been the primary driver for my continued membership year after year. If Amazon offered a Prime subscription solely focused on these shipping benefits, without the inclusion of Prime Video, I would likely choose that option. My engagement with Prime Video's content, while I occasionally browse, is minimal...

The streaming landscape is dominated by a few key players, and when it comes to streaming devices, the Google TV platform and its accompanying remote often receive high praise. You’ll find countless articles lauding the sleek design and smart features of the Chromecast with Google TV (and now the standalone Google TV Streamer) remote. And while I can certainly appreciate its minimalist aesthetic, I find myself consistently reaching for the remote that came with my Onn Streaming Device. Yes, you read that right. I prefer the often-underestimated Onn remote. Now, before you think I’ve completely lost my cord-cutting mind, let me be clear: remote preference is incredibly subjective. What feels like a natural extension of your hand to one person might feel clunky or awkward to another. For me, the Onn remote simply hits the mark in two key areas: ergonomics and button placement. The Feel in Hand: Comfort Matters For as much time as we spend navigating streaming menus and pausing conten...

In today's world, streaming has become a cornerstone of family entertainment. For those of us with little ones at home, the convenience of dedicated kids' profiles on various streaming apps is a game-changer. No more worrying about them stumbling onto content that's not age-appropriate! In this post, I'll be sharing my favorite free and paid streaming options that offer features specifically beneficial for preschool-aged children. While my focus is on the youngest viewers, you'll likely find that many of these points hold true for older kids as well. My Favorite Free Streaming Options: Kanopy Kids : If you have a library card, you might already have access to a fantastic resource: Kanopy. Their dedicated "Kanopy Kids" section offers a thoughtfully curated collection of ad-free content, ranging from educational series to beloved children's stories. What I especially appreciate is that while the main Kanopy service often has streaming limits, Kanop...

The world of AI assistants is constantly evolving, promising to make our digital lives smoother and more intuitive. The latest entrant to the conversation is Amazon's Alexa Plus, an enhanced version of their familiar voice assistant. For us cord-cutters, especially those who've embraced the smart home and streaming landscape, the question is: will Alexa Plus be a valuable addition, or is it another shiny gadget in an already crowded space? As someone deeply entrenched in the Google ecosystem, with Google TV powering my streaming and Google Gemini often lending a digital hand, I approach this with a slightly different lens. While I'm not looking to sway anyone away from Alexa, I'm keen to explore if Alexa Plus offers compelling reasons for those of us already content with alternatives to jump into the Amazon hardware world. What is Amazon Alexa Plus? Alexa Plus isn't just a minor upgrade; Amazon is positioning it as a significant leap forward. Built on generative...

When Sling TV burst onto the scene in 2015, it was a game-changer for those of us looking to ditch expensive cable bills. As one of the very first live TV streaming services, it offered a glimpse into a more flexible future of television. I remember trying it out myself shortly after it launched, having already been a cord-cutter since early 2011. Sling TV has become a familiar friend during college football season. This insightful video from the Michael Saves YouTube channel takes a look at Sling TV in the current streaming landscape, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and who might find it the right fit in 2025. [ YouTube ] As you can see from the review, Sling TV has evolved since its early days, offering more features and facing increased competition. For me, while it wasn't a constant fixture in my streaming setup, Sling TV has consistently been my go-to service for one crucial reason: college football season. Its affordability for accessing ESPN and other sports channel...

A recent survey from Cord Cutters News has revealed a striking statistic: in 2025, cable TV customers are paying more than double what cord-cutters spend on their entertainment. With the rising costs of traditional cable, more and more people are ditching their cable boxes and embracing the world of streaming. We're all about helping you save money while enjoying your favorite shows and movies. Survey Findings: The Numbers Don't Lie The survey indicates that the average cable TV bill now sits at a hefty $147 per month, with some subscribers paying upwards of $200 due to extra fees and premium channels. Meanwhile, cord-cutters are enjoying an average monthly cost of around $70, often covering both internet and multiple streaming subscriptions. This significant difference highlights the clear financial advantage of cutting the cord. Cord-cutters are also more likely to subscribe to ad-supported tiers of streaming services, saving even more money. It's important to remembe...

In my previous post, "7 Essential Tips for Cord-Cutters," I highlighted the importance of taking advantage of bundled services to maximize your entertainment options while potentially saving money. But what exactly are bundled services, and how can you find the best deals? This deep dive will explore the world of bundled services, providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the different options, evaluate their value, and make informed decisions that align with your cord-cutting needs and preferences. Types of Bundled Services Bundled services come in various forms, each offering unique benefits and considerations for cord-cutters. Here are the main types to be aware of: Streaming Service Bundles These bundles combine multiple streaming services together, often at a discounted price compared to subscribing to each service individually. Some popular examples include: The Disney Trio : This bundle includes Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus, offering a wide var...

In my previous post , I shared my excitement about a potential solution for Braves fans like myself: FanDuel Sports Network. They've announced they'll be directly broadcasting Braves games (and 8 other teams) without local blackouts, a dream come true for those of us in the Braves' TV territory. After a few days of testing, I'm ready to share my initial assessment. Let's start with app performance. I've been using the FanDuel Sports Network app on my Google TV devices, and I'm thoroughly impressed. The picture quality is crystal clear, and I haven't experienced any buffering whatsoever. Of course, I have a very stable network, but the app is clearly well-optimized for live sports streaming. The interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate and find the games. My son, who's also been testing it on his Apple TV, agrees -- the app is incredibly stable, and he's had similar results to my own. As for Braves game access, I'm happy to report...

We spend a lot of time talking about streaming services, devices, and antennas when we talk about cutting the cord. And rightly so – these are the tools we use to access our entertainment. But there's a silent workhorse in the background, often overlooked until it falters: your home WiFi network. Think of your streaming services as the content providers, and your streaming devices as the delivery trucks. Your home network? That's the road the trucks need to travel on. If the road is bumpy, narrow, or congested, the delivery isn't going to be smooth. In the world of cord-cutting, a weak or unreliable home network can lead to frustrating buffering, dropped streams, and a generally poor viewing experience. The Ever-Increasing Demand on Your WiFi As highlighted in a recent report from Cord Cutters News, the average home now has a staggering number of connected devices – often exceeding 30! This surge is fueled by smart TVs, streaming sticks, tablets, smartphones, smart home...

A recent article on Cord Cutters News caught my attention, discussing an upcoming Supreme Court decision that could have significant implications for how online piracy is handled. Authored by Luke Bouma, the article delves into the case where Sony is pushing for internet providers to be held responsible for the pirated content accessed by their users. Grande Communications, one of the internet providers involved, is understandably concerned, warning that such a ruling could force them to disconnect subscribers even without definitive proof of wrongdoing. Bouma astutely points out that this decision could fundamentally reshape how we access the internet. While I agree with the overall importance of this case and the potential for widespread impact, one particular conclusion in Bouma's article gave me pause. He suggested that if Cox Communications (involved in a similar case) were to win, it "could mean fewer repercussions for users who download copyrighted material." W...

For years, the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd have been sounds I've had to chase as a cord-cutter and a die-hard Atlanta Braves fan living right in their broadcast territory. The frustration with MLB.TV blackouts is a familiar story for many of us, leaving us scrambling for often unreliable or inconvenient ways to watch our favorite teams. But now, a new player has entered the game, and it might just be the home run we've been waiting for: FanDuel Sports Network. FanDuel Sports Network, for the 2025 MLB season, is directly broadcasting games for 9 teams, and thankfully, the Atlanta Braves are on that list! The other teams included are the Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Miami Marlins, Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays. 1  For fans of these teams, this is potentially huge news. The key benefit? A direct-to-consumer streaming option that promises to eliminate those dreaded local blackouts – a game-cha...

Well, cord-cutters, there's been a significant shift over at Max that those of you on the Basic with Ads plan need to be aware of. Earlier this week (effective March 30th, 2025), Warner Bros. Discovery made a change that impacts access to live sports. If you were enjoying live NBA games, MLB matchups, NHL action, or big events like NCAA March Madness on Max while subscribed to the ad-supported tier, you'll now find that those are no longer available. To continue watching these live sporting events on Max, you'll need to be on either the Standard or Premium ad-free plans. Previously, the inclusion of live sports was a nice perk for those opting for the more budget-friendly Basic with Ads option. However, that has now changed, meaning if you want your live sports fix on Max, you'll be looking at a higher monthly bill. It's also worth noting that CNN Max content is no longer included in the Basic with Ads plan. For those already subscribed to the Standard or Premi...

The clock is ticking for Windows 10. With official support ending in October 2025, the conversation has shifted from if you'll upgrade to what you'll upgrade to. An article on XDA Developers recently offered its advice, essentially outlining several operating systems to avoid: macOS Arch Linux Kali OS ChromeOS While the article diligently explained the reasons for its recommendations, it inadvertently pointed towards a more expensive reality for many users: the potential need to buy a new computer capable of running Windows 11. However, reading through the justifications for avoiding these alternatives, I couldn't help but feel that the picture painted was unnecessarily bleak. My personal experience suggests a different reality, one where migrating away from Windows might not be the daunting task the article implies, especially when considering options that can breathe new life into existing hardware. Take macOS, for example. The XDA piece touched on it...