Unlock a World of Free Entertainment on Your Fire TV

Tired of paying for a dozen streaming services? Your Fire TV might be the solution!  Amazon's popular streaming platform offers a treasure trove of free content, making it easy to ditch those expensive subscriptions and still enjoy hours of entertainment.

Fire TV Channels: Your Free Content Hub

One of the best things about Fire TV is its built-in free content hub: Fire TV Channels. This dedicated app (and section within the Fire TV interface) gathers free movies, TV shows, and live channels from various providers, all in one convenient place.

Here's what you'll find:

• News: Stay informed with channels like ABC News, CBS News, and Reuters.
• Sports: Catch the latest highlights and games from Major League Baseball.
• Lifestyle: Enjoy cooking shows with Martha Stewart and entertainment news from People Magazine and The Hollywood Reporter.
• Gaming: Get your gaming fix with content from Xbox and IGN.
• And much more!

Fire TV Channels offers a mix of live TV and a growing on-demand library, and Amazon is constantly adding new content and partners.

Supercharge Your Free TV with FAST Apps

Want even more free options?  Fire TV supports a wide range of FAST (free ad-supported television) apps. Here are a few of the best:

• Freevee: Amazon's own free streaming service with a growing library of movies, shows, and originals.
• Tubi: A massive library (over 50,000 titles!) of well-known movies and shows.
• Pluto TV: Excellent for a cable-like experience with live TV channels and an on-demand library.
• Plex: Combine free streaming with your personal media library for a truly customized experience.
• Xumo: Another solid choice for live TV, with a good variety of channels and on-demand content.
• Kanopy: Enjoy documentaries, independent films, and educational content completely ad-free (requires a library card or university login).
• Sling Freestream: A mix of live TV and on-demand content from the makers of Sling TV.

Finding the Right Apps for You

With so many options, how do you choose the best free apps for your Fire TV?

• Consider your viewing habits: Do you prefer live TV, on-demand movies, or a mix of both?
• Explore the content libraries: Make sure the apps offer shows and movies that interest you.
• Read reviews: See what other Fire TV users have to say about their experiences.

Embrace the World of Free Streaming

Between Fire TV Channels and the vast selection of FAST apps, there's a world of free entertainment waiting for you on your Fire TV.  So ditch those expensive subscriptions, start exploring, and enjoy!

My Streaming Life consists of a lot of free TV content. What are your favorite free streaming apps or channels on Fire TV? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

Google TV Streamer on the rise

While Roku remains the dominant player in the cord-cutting market, Google TV is gaining momentum. According to a recent survey from Cord Cutters News, among cord-cutters planning to buy a new streaming device this year, Google TV is the second most popular choice, surpassing Amazon Fire TV. This increased interest likely stems from the recent release of the powerful Google TV Streamer 4K and the availability of affordable options like the Onn Pro 4K.

When asked if cord cutters planned to buy a new device and, if so, what device, this year Roku was the most popular answer with 12.6% of the market. Google TV came in second place with 4.1%, followed by Fire TV at 2.9%, and Apple TV 1.6%. 77.1% said they did not plan to buy any streaming devices this year.

Roku still dominates cord cutting, but Google TV is seeing strong inroads recently. This comes as Google just released a massively powerful Google TV Streamer 4K. Also, Walmart has been pushing affordable but powerful streaming players with its Onn brand of electronics including a new Onn Pro 4K streamer that has become very popular with cord cutters with its powerful specs and a price under $50.

This shift to Google TV seems to have taken equally from Roku and Fire TV though historically Fire TV was the second most popular streaming player with cord cutters.

Google's strategy of integrating Google TV as the default operating system on smart TVs from brands like TCL also contributes to its growing visibility. As streaming platforms increasingly rely on advertising revenue, securing a larger user base becomes crucial, and Google TV seems to be successfully attracting new users.

It's important to note that this Cord Cutters News survey reflects future purchase intentions, not current market share. Roku still holds a commanding lead in overall usage. However, Google TV's rising popularity among those looking to buy new devices suggests a potential shift in the streaming landscape in the coming years.

My Streaming Life has shifted to using Google TV, including the new Google TV Streamer, in the past year. It appears others are considering a shift as well.

Samsung's One UI Arrives on Smart TVs: A New Era for the Interface?

Samsung has just launched a major update to its smart TV platform, and it's generating a lot of buzz.  They're rolling out One UI, a new interface designed to provide a fresh, modern experience.

While I'm not a Samsung TV owner myself (I've always preferred Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, or Apple TV), I know many people are excited about this change.  My sister, for example, is a huge Samsung fan, and she'll get it when she buys her next TV.

What's New with One UI?

One UI brings a cleaner, more streamlined look to Samsung TVs, similar to the interface found on their Galaxy smartphones.  Here are some of the highlights:

• Modern design: Say goodbye to clutter and hello to a more visually appealing interface.
• Personalized recommendations: A new "For You" tab offers tailored suggestions based on your viewing habits.
• Watch Later: Easily save movies and shows to watch later.
• Improved Game Bar: Enhanced features for gamers, including quick access to settings and game optimization.

Why This Update Matters

This isn't just a cosmetic change. One UI represents a significant shift in Samsung's approach to its TV platform.

• Unified experience: It creates a more consistent experience across Samsung devices.
• Improved usability: The interface is designed to be more intuitive and user-friendly.
• Long-term support: Samsung is promising up to 7 years of OS updates for TVs receiving One UI, demonstrating a commitment to long-term support.

Will One UI Make Samsung a Top Contender?

Currently, One UI is only available for select 2023 Samsung TV models, but the company plans to expand its availability in the future.

It'll be interesting to see how this update impacts Samsung's position in the smart TV market. Could this new interface elevate Samsung to the top tier, alongside the major four (Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, and Apple TV)? Only time will tell.

My Streaming Life isn't impacted by this, but some family is. What do you think of Samsung's One UI? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

ESPN Streaming: Ditching Sling TV (Eventually!)

Cord-cutters rejoice! Well, maybe not quite yet... but soon! We've all been waiting with bated breath for news on the standalone ESPN streaming app, and while it's not here quite yet, the finish line is in sight.

As many of you know, I've been relying on Sling TV to get my ESPN fix. It's been a decent option, but let's be honest, it's not ideal. I'm tired of paying for channels I don't watch just to get access to sports.

So, when Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed the ESPN streaming app is coming in the fall of 2025, I was thrilled! Finally, a way to get all the sports I want without the extra baggage (and cost) of a bloated cable package or a bundled streaming service.

What We Know (and What We Don't)

Here's the lowdown:

• Launch Date: Fall 2025 (yes, it's a bit of a wait, but hopefully worth it!)
• Content: Expect a comprehensive lineup of live sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and ESPN+ originals. Fingers crossed for all the games we crave!
• Price: This is where things get a little fuzzy. Early rumors had the price as high as $40-$45/month, but more recent reports suggest it could be in the $25-$30 range. Still a hefty price tag, but potentially cheaper than some cable sports packages.
• How to Get It: It'll likely be available as an add-on to Disney+ or as a separate subscription.

Why I'm Excited (and You Should Be Too!)

• No More Bundles: Say goodbye to paying for channels you never watch!
• Potential Cost Savings: Depending on your current TV setup, this could actually save you money in the long run.
• Streamlined Sports Experience: Get all your favorite sports in one place, with a dedicated app designed for sports fans.

The Waiting Game

While the wait is a bit frustrating, I'm choosing to be optimistic. In the meantime, I'll be keeping a close eye on any updates from Disney. And when that glorious day arrives, you can bet I'll be one of the first to ditch Sling TV and dive headfirst into the world of standalone ESPN streaming.

My Streaming Life will give it a try, and perhaps that will be my way to stream sports. What about you? Are you excited about the ESPN streaming app? What are you hoping to see from the service? Let me know in the comments!

Windows Alternative: FydeOS

With the ending os Windows 10 support, many are finding their computers won't upgrade. Many of those don't like the idea of having to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new computer if their existing computer is otherwise working fine. So, what is one to do?

To extend a computer's life after Windows 10 support ends, the best option is to install a different operating system. I've mentioned a couple of options for this previously:

1. Linux
2. ChromeOS

Well, there is another option. I've not used it yet, but only heard about recently: FydeOS. Here is a recent video from Explaining Computers talking about it:

[YouTube]

I like the idea of an easy to use OS that is similar to ChromeOS. I also like the idea of a ChromeOS clone that does not require a Google login, increaseing privacy and security. It's more like Linux in this way, and this could be the perfect blend of the two. I'll be installing FydeOS on an older computer soon, and testing it myself.

My Streaming Life appreciates the connections to Apple, Google, and the other services that are currently necessary. However, for everything else, and for as much streaming as possible, I don't like sharing my data.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 7

Week 7 of the 2024 college football season is underway with 9 games already in the book. This week began early, with a Tuesday night game, a Wednesday night game, three Thursday night games, and four games last night. Today, 43 games are on the schedule, same number as last Saturday. Between now and next Saturday, there are nine more games. Today, there are 16 Top 25 teams playing today, with one game between ranked teams.

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
• Fox Sports 2
• 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/Fox Sports 2

• 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.

The Streaming Rotation and the Streaming Gap

I've been thinking lately about my streaming life and how I rotate services to save money. The idea is to subscribe to only one or two at a time, but I realized it's not always a perfect rotation. Sometimes there are gaps where I don't subscribe to any!

Here's the lineup of services I rotate through:

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

You might notice I left out Prime Video and Paramount Plus. That's because they're bundled with other subscriptions I have (Amazon Prime and Walmart Plus, respectively). Those two are always available, so they're not part of my rotation strategy.

Right now, I'm subscribed to Hulu and Disney Plus, mainly to get ESPN Plus for football season. It was cheaper to bundle all three. Once football is over, I'll likely drop them both. I may pick up another service then, or maybe I'll just enjoy a break from paid subscriptions for a while.

After all, even without Hulu and Disney Plus, I'll still have Paramount Plus and plenty of free streaming content to keep me entertained. My Streaming Life has the goal to save money. Rotating services -- along with taking breaks from paid subscriptions altogether -- is how I make that happen.