Comcast's Launches New Streaming Service

With streaming services like Netflix and HBO Now experiencing mainstream success, Comcast, a leading cable and broadband provider, is hoping to try its luck with its own service. Comcast has dubbed its new streaming service as 'Stream'. After HBO's announcement that they would offer HBO Now as a standalone service, Comcast and other cable providers began to worry that they would lose business. Stream is Comcast's response to the challenge presented by HBO Now, Amazon Fire TV, and Netflix. This service is similar to Netflix and other streaming services in many ways, but it also has several features that set it apart from its competition.

What's Offered by Stream:

Comcast's new streaming service offers users the opportunity to enjoy many of the features offered by current cable packages. People can use Stream to view live television from a large number of popular networks. This includes NBC, FOX, MSNBC, CNN, and many more. In addition to being able to access a live stream of broadcast television, Stream users will also have the option to record shows through a simple scheduling feature in your browser. This allows users to record shows that air during business meetings and other obligations, so that they can be watched later. Users of Stream will also have access to the cable version of HBO. Stream will also provide users with thousands of on-demand shows and movies.

What's Not Offered by Stream:

While Stream will offer HBO, other movie channels like AMC, TNT, and TMC will not be available to Stream users. Stream will also not provide access to most premium cable programs like ESPN. Stream is intended for use on mobile devices and computers, so users will not automatically have access to the large screens that cable-users often enjoy. Despite this, users do have the option of using Stream on TVs and large monitors if they make use of HDMI cables and other services such as Chromecast. Stream will not offer the large selection provided by Netflix, but its selection will be more up-to-date.

The Benefits of Stream:

Stream is a convenient and simplistic alternative to cable television. Instead of dealing with digital antennas and converter boxes, Stream allows subscribers to view television programs and broadcasts from a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This removes much of the hassle associated with having cable television service in home. Stream also makes television more accessible to people who move or travel frequently. Currently, no other service provides access to live cable television. This expands broadcast news and network television to a greater number of people. Stream is also an ideal option for people mindful of their budgets. Stream is available for $15 per month, so users can gain access to cable television at a fraction of the price of full cable packages.

The Impact of Stream:

Stream is Comcast's strategy of surviving and thriving in the 21st century market. It is a growing trend that millennials and other young people decide to opt out of cable in favor of Netflix and cheaper on-demand services. This less expensive alternative to traditional cable is expected to pull in new subscribers by appealing to the younger generations. Stream is still in the Beta stages, but it will be tested in Boston sometime this summer. After this, Comcast expects to test the new service in Seattle and Chicago. If Stream is a success in these cities, it will likely expand to various locations across the United States. More networks and cable channels may decide to join Stream if it performs well during the Beta stage.

Stream is not expected to be a service that rivals Netflix or other established streaming services. Instead, it will offer a completely new and innovative service of mobile cable television.