Tag Archives: Apple TV

Cut the Cable Cord

Posted on by under product review, tv

aereo logoAre you tired of paying huge cable bills?  Are you looking for alternatives?  Aereo is a good place to start.

Aereo streams to your TV all the local over-the-air broadcast stations like ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS plus a few other stations like Bloomberg TV without needing a cable subscription or TV antenna.  The base service cost $8 per month and includes 20 hours of cloud based DVR space.  Aereo can run on your computer or directly on your TV with a Roku or Apple TV.

Another option is to get a digital antenna for about $50.  This will also allow you to view all broadcast stations but if you live in an area like New York City, the quality of your signal will depend on  your exact location.  The best option here is to purchase one that is returnable;  you’ll want to verify that you get a decent signal.

If you’ve purchased a Roku or Apple TV then you’re all set for streaming Netflix.  A basic streaming plan is $7.99 per month.  You can add a DVD plan for as little as $4.99 per month (not all movies and TV shows are available for streaming.)

Finally, there is Hulu Plus also available with Roku or Apple TV.  It’s free for the first 30 days and then $7.99 per month.  Hulu Plus has lots and lots of TV shows from broadcast TV and cable available for streaming.  You can see what networks, shows and movies they stream here.

HBO has been hinting that they are going to offer a subscription to HBO GO that does not require a cable subscription.  This service would most likely be available through ROku and Apple TV.

If you want to learn more about your options or how you can reduce your huge cable bill give us a call.

Apple TV vs. Roku?

Posted on by under product review

Image

I get asked this question a lot. You can find comparisons of these products here and here.  Or, just know this:  both are excellent products but the Roku 3 (or Roku 2) offers more channels  and costs less than the Apple TV.  If you already buy and view content ( TV shows, movies, etc.) from iTunes, or you want to view content from your Apple computer on your TV, then the Apple TV is your product. Otherwise, Roku is the way to go.  Both products support Netflix, Hulu but only the Roku supports streaming from Amazon, and Amazon is now providing original content.  It’s first show is called Alpha House.

Summary:  Choose Apple TV if you buy from iTunes or want to stream content from your Apple computer to your TV.  Choose Roku if you want the most viewing options including Amazon and/or you want to spend a little less money.

Click here to learn more about Tech Concierge NYC.