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.

The Streaming Shuffle: Maximizing Content, Minimizing Costs

To maximize my streaming enjoyment while minimizing costs, I rotate through a selection of popular services. This means I subscribe to just one service at a time, binge-watching my desired content, then cancel and move on to the next.

Here's the lineup:

• Netflix ($7/month)
• Max ($10/month)
• Disney Plus ($8/month)
• Paramount Plus ($12/month)
• Discovery Plus ($5/month)
• Apple TV Plus ($10/month)
• Hulu ($10/month)
• Prime Video ($15/month)
• Peacock ($14/month)
• AMC Plus ($7/month)
• Starz ($11/month)

For example, one month it's Max. The next month, it's Paramount Plus.  This strategy lets me explore each service fully without the burden of multiple subscriptions.

Occasionally, I'll opt for a bundle deal like Disney Plus and Hulu, or Paramount Plus with Showtime, for extra value. If the total is $10-15 for multiple services, it's a good deal.

With this approach, I enjoy a year's worth of diverse content for roughly $15/month or less!

A few exceptions:

• Amazon Prime: I maintain this year-round for shipping and other perks, though I rarely use Prime Video itself. I'll re-evaluate this in January.
• Peacock: Free for me as an Xfinity internet customer, but again, rarely used.

This "rotating subscription" method isn't unique to me. Publications like Tom's Guide even recommend similar strategies, though perhaps less extreme.

My Streaming Life has saving money as a priority. If saving money is a priority in your streaming life, consider giving this a try. Even if it seems too drastic, you can always explore less intense options.

Cord Cutting Reflections: A Decade of Streaming and What I'd Miss Most

Back in 2011, I took the plunge and cut the cord. This wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision; I'd spent two years meticulously analyzing my TV viewing habits and comparing the costs of cable versus streaming.  In 2009, the numbers didn't quite add up, but by 2010, it was clear that streaming was the more economical choice. So, I embraced the world of on-demand content, antennas, and nascent streaming services.

Fast forward to today, and the streaming landscape has transformed. While I initially focused on the financial benefits of cord cutting, my decade-long streaming journey has revealed something unexpected: the true value lies in control.

The Power of On-Demand

Before cutting the cord, my trusty TiVo gave me a taste of TV freedom. I could record shows, skip commercials, and watch at my own pace. This shift to on-demand viewing fundamentally changed how I consumed content.  Live TV became almost irrelevant, with the exception of sports, particularly college football.

Even after all these years, on-demand remains the most satisfying aspect of streaming. It aligns perfectly with my desire to control my viewing experience. I can choose what I want to watch and when I want to watch it, without being bound by a broadcast schedule.

What I'd Miss Most

If I were to return to the world of traditional cable, the financial hit would be noticeable. But the real loss would be the autonomy I've come to cherish.  The ability to curate my own TV experience, free from the constraints of live programming, is something I wouldn't readily give up.

Beyond the Dollars and Cents

While cord cutting initially offered a way to save money, it has evolved into something more significant. It's about empowerment, flexibility, and having the freedom to shape my entertainment on my own terms.

In the end, cord cutting isn't just about saving money; it's about gaining control. And that's something I'd truly miss. My Streaming Life couldn' bear that.

Top Free Weather Apps for Cord Cutters

In the last two weeks, I had the pleasure of experiencing Hurricane Helene. I lost power and Internet for a few days, but sustained no serious damage. And now there's another that will be south of here, and have at least some impact on us.

You may not be in the path of Hurricane Milton, but you may be interested in the weather. There are tons of great free weather apps for your streaming device. Here are a few of my favorites for Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, and Apple TV:

1. WeatherNation:

Available on: Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, Apple TV

Why it's awesome: This app is like having your own personal weather channel! It offers a 24/7 live stream with national weather updates, plus local forecasts, radar, and severe weather alerts. Perfect for keeping an eye on those big storms brewing.

2. AccuWeather:

Available on: Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, Apple TV

Why it's awesome: AccuWeather is your go-to for hyperlocal forecasts. Their MinuteCast feature tells you exactly when to expect rain or snow down to the minute. Plus, they've got radar, satellite maps, and severe weather alerts to keep you informed.

3. The Weather Network:

Available on: Roku, Fire TV (limited features), Apple TV

Why it's awesome: This app gives you the full picture with detailed local forecasts, radar maps, and even video forecasts. They also throw in some news stories to keep you in the loop.

4. Haystack News:

Available on: Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, Apple TV

Why it's awesome: Haystack News is a great option if you want your weather alongside your local news. You can customize your feed to prioritize weather updates, so you get all the info you need in one place.

Choosing the Right App for You:

Here are a few things to consider when picking your perfect weather app:

Accuracy is Key: Make sure the app provides accurate forecasts for your specific location, especially if you're in a smaller town or rural area.

Radar and Maps are a Must: Look for apps with interactive radar and satellite maps to track storms and get a clear picture of what's happening.

Stay Safe with Severe Weather Alerts: Choose an app with customizable alerts for different weather conditions, so you can be prepared for anything.

User-Friendly Interface: A good weather app should be easy to navigate and understand, especially during severe weather.

Don't Forget Local News Apps!

Many local news stations have their own apps with live streams and detailed weather segments. It's a great way to get information straight from your local meteorologists.

Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect weather app is to try out a few different options. See which one gives you the features and information you need in a way that works for you. Happy streaming (and stay dry!)!

Crackle and the Changing Tides of Streaming

The streaming world of 2011 was a different beast. Forget about live TV options like Sling TV or YouTube TV -- they didn't exist! Netflix was around, of course, and so was Hulu, though not as we know it today. No live channels then, just two distinct Hulu experiences: the browser-based version and Hulu Plus with its separate subscription and content. And then there were the on-demand apps like Crackle.

Crackle landed on my Roku shortly after I ditched cable, becoming an early favorite. I can't recall if it had original content back then (I don't think so), but it offered shows and movies you simply couldn't find, or at least easily find, anywhere else. I remember getting hooked on some short-form series with 10-20 minute episodes—though the names escape me now. The point is, I loved Crackle. It was unique and showed me early on that streaming wasn't just about watching familiar things; it was a portal to content cable couldn't offer.

It's been a while since I last fired up Crackle, which is precisely the problem. A larger audience might have kept it afloat, but sadly, it's facing bankruptcy and imminent shutdown. Cord Cutters News even reported it's already gone dark, though it's still working for me at the moment.

Crackle was there at the beginning of my streaming journey, but other services eventually took its place. Soon, it will fade away completely, taking a piece of my streaming history with it. It makes me think about how quickly things change in the digital world and how even the services we rely on can vanish, leaving only memories behind. My Streaming Life will always cherish those memories.

Privacy and AI: Rob Braxman's Take

AI is a thing. You can't escape it on Windows, Mac, or ChromeOS. You can't escape it on Facebook. You can't escape it on your iOS or Android device. You can't escape it. So what does that mean?

Internet Privacy Guy Rob Braxman shares his thoughts:

[YouTube]

My Streaming Life can't fully escape AI. I just want to watch TV and not have some Big Tech company watching it with me.

Watching College Football: 2024 Week 6

Week 6 of the 2024 college football season has begun. There have been six games so far, with two on Thursday and four last night, with two ranked teams having played already. And there has already been a Top 25 upset (last night's overtime game). Today, 43 games are on the schedule. 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.

Google TV Streamer : Lon.TV review

Last week, I talked about receiving the new Google TV Streamer. The plan was to use it and let you know what I thought.

Then the hurricane hit. Plus, some things at work took up some time. I've used the device a little bit, after power came back. Overall, I've streamed very little over the past week.

Lon Seidmann to the rescue. Over on YouTube, Lon.TV has a review of this little streaming deviceL

[YouTube]

I can't disagree with anything he said. He has used it, or tried to use it, with more features than I have. Where we've both used some features, I think he's on target in his criticisms and in his praise. I don't always agree with everything Lon Seidman says, but on this one, as far as I've been able to use the device, I agree with him.

My Streaming Life focuses on streaming, mostly typical user streaming, and not high end enthusiast or gaming device usage. The Google TV Streamer is a good device, but a little expenseive, as Lon Seidman says. I'm not saying don't get one, just know what it is your getting, and don't expect gamer or high end enthusiast performance.

Cutting the Cord in 2024: Looking at Tom's Guide to the Best Streaming Services

Ready to ditch expensive cable and embrace the freedom of streaming? You're not alone! With a plethora of options available, finding the perfect streaming service can be overwhelming. Luckily, Tom's Guide recently released their "best of" list for 2024, and I'm here to break it down, adding my own insights from years of cord-cutting experience.

1. Max: The Best Overall

Tom's Guide dubs Max the "home box office," and it's hard to argue with that assessment. Boasting a vast library of Warner Bros. films, HBO originals like "House of the Dragon," and classic TV shows, Max truly offers something for everyone.

While Max is a strong contender for the top spot, especially for movie buffs and fans of prestige TV, the recent price increase and removal of some content might give you pause. My choice would be a toss-up between Paramount Plus and Max.

2. Peacock: The Best Value

Peacock's fantastic free tier with limited content is perfect for casual viewers. If you crave more, their Premium plan is still budget-friendly.

Personally, I find Peacock to be a decent, though not spectacular, service. While their original shows are gaining traction, I wish their live sports offerings included more than just Premier League soccer. I'm a big college football fan, so that's a dealbreaker for me.

3. Sling TV: The Best for Live TV

For cord-cutters craving the live TV experience, Sling TV is a great option. Their customizable packages let you choose your channels, so you only pay for what you watch.

Sling is a solid choice, but be prepared to navigate a somewhat clunky interface. While they've made improvements, it's still not as user-friendly as YouTube TV (though YouTube TV is significantly pricier at $73 compared to Sling's $40).

4. Hulu: The Best for New TV Shows

Hulu excels at next-day streaming for popular network shows, making it ideal for those who like to stay current.

For TV enthusiasts, Hulu is a must-have. Their original series are top-notch ("The Handmaid's Tale," anyone?), and the option to bundle with Disney Plus and ESPN Plus is a tempting offer. As someone who's been streaming since 2011, Hulu was my go-to "cable replacement" for years.

5. Netflix: The Best for a Ton of Content

Despite increased competition, Netflix remains a solid choice for most, thanks to its massive library of movies and TV shows, including a growing selection of international content.

Just be aware that their crackdown on password sharing might affect your viewing habits.

6. Disney Plus: The Best for Families

Disney Plus is the undisputed champion for families, with a treasure trove of Disney classics, Pixar films, Marvel movies, and Star Wars content.

While the classic content is fantastic, some of Disney Plus's newer offerings leave a lot to be desired. Many are criticizing Disney Plus for their entry into political agenda. I criticize them for the quality of the shows.

7. Apple TV Plus: The Best for Quality Originals

Apple TV Plus prioritizes quality over quantity. Their originals have earned critical acclaim and awards, particularly in the drama and comedy genres. With its reasonable price, Apple TV Plus is a great choice for many viewers, not just Apple Fanboys.

8. Fubo: The Best Sports Streaming Service

Fubo offers a comprehensive sports package, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and international soccer.

If you're a die-hard sports fan, Fubo is worth considering, but it's one of the pricier options on this list.

9. Prime Video: The Best Add-on

If you're already an Amazon Prime member, you have access to Prime Video, which offers a decent selection of movies and TV shows.

Prime Video is a nice perk of Prime membership, but it wouldn't be my first choice as a standalone streaming service. Or second choice.

Some Final Thoughts:

Ultimately, the best streaming service for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, viewing habits, and favorite genres when making your decision. And don't be afraid to try out a few different services before committing to one (or rotate several!). My Streaming Life has inlcuded them all over the years. As a seasoned cord-cutter, I can tell you that each has its strengths and weaknesses.

What are your favorite streaming services? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Choosing the Right Router for Your Home Network

Tablo recently published an article addressing the question of which router is best for use with their DVR product. Their advice is actually relevant to anyone looking to improve their home network, so let's break it down and expand on their recommendations.

Tablo starts by saying:

We won't recommend one brand over the other but we can suggest that a router have the following features.

This is a fair point. While specific brands can have their strengths and weaknesses, the features are what truly matter. Always check out customer reviews before making your final decision. (I'll share a couple of my own favorites later on.)

Next, Tablo highlights the importance of dual-band Wi-Fi:

It should have dual-band Wi-Fi. Most routers come with such already. ...

I agree. Don't even consider a single-band router. Those are outdated and won't provide the performance you need. Dual-band is the minimum these days.

The article then emphasizes the need for multiple Ethernet ports:

It should have multiple Ethernet ports. If you’re connecting a router to your ISP’s router, you’ll need an Ethernet port for it. The second one should be for your Tablo. This will ensure your over-the-air and streaming channels reach your router fast and interference-free. You can also connect your computers to your router via Ethernet and switch off their Wi-Fi. This will reduce the radio noise in your home and make the wireless connections of your smart TVs, phones and tablets cleaner.

This is excellent advice, and it goes beyond just Tablo DVRs. Any device that streams a lot of data across your network, like a DVR, a gaming console, or a media server, will benefit significantly from a wired Ethernet connection. Always prioritize wired connections whenever possible.

Finally, Tablo touches on mesh networks:

A word on mesh networks. Mesh networks are routers made up of multiple Wi-Fi receivers. They’re handy for spreading your Wi-Fi over a large area and enhancing Wi-Fi signals. They work great but tend to be more complicated to manage. If you use a Tablo with such, we suggest a direct Ethernet connection to its main hub. Connecting your Tablo to one of its nodes may require delicate adjustments to enable your DVR to work with your mesh.

Mesh networks are fantastic for extending Wi-Fi coverage, but as Tablo points out, it's best to connect your bandwidth-intensive devices (like a Tablo) directly to the main mesh hub with an Ethernet cable.

As I mentioned earlier, I've had great experiences with mesh systems from Google Nest and Amazon Eero. Both are easy to use and provide excellent coverage.

One last point: Don't underestimate the value of owning your own router. Unlike renting one from your internet provider, you can keep your own router even if you change internet service. This provides consistency and can save you money in the long run.

Ultimately, Tablo's advice is solid, and while they focus on their own device, the recommendations are applicable to anyone who wants a fast and reliable home network. My Streaming Life benefits from this.

Dish & DirecTV Merger: Will Sling TV Survive?

Get ready for a seismic shift in the streaming world! Dish Network and DirecTV, two giants of the US pay-TV landscape, are merging in a move that could reshape how we watch television. This deal, expected to be finalized in late 2025, has huge implications for cord-cutters who love Sling TV and DirecTV Stream.

What will happen to these popular streaming services? Will they be combined into one mega-platform? Will they continue to operate independently? Or could one of them disappear entirely? While the merged company is keeping its cards close to its chest, we can explore some likely scenarios.

A Dollar Deal?

Before we dive into those scenarios, let's talk about the unusual nature of this merger. DirecTV is essentially acquiring Dish for a single dollar! The catch? They're also taking on Dish's massive debt load.

Under the deal, DirecTV will pay Dish’s owner, EchoStar, just $1 for Dish in exchange for assuming its billions of dollars in debt.

Private equity firm TPG, meanwhile, will acquire AT&T’s remaining 70% stake in DirecTV. The move comes nine years after AT&T purchased the company in 2015 only to sell a 30% stake to TPG in 2021, a DirecTV spokesperson told CNN.

The deal still hinges on Dish bondholders agreeing on net debt lower than $1.56 billion, which a DirecTV spokesperson said the company will look to secure in the coming weeks. Bondholders can accept a lower percentage, take a slightly higher percentage today, or wait it out, which risks Dish ending up in bankruptcy. Dish shared an exchange offering in a press release on Monday.

This complex deal involves private equity firm TPG buying AT&T's remaining stake in DirecTV, making it a three-way dance with high stakes.

Possible Futures for Sling TV and DirecTV Stream

• Scenario 1: Merger and Consolidation: The most likely outcome is a merger of Sling TV and DirecTV Stream into a single service. This would streamline operations and cut costs, but could also mean higher prices for consumers as competition decreases.
• Scenario 2: Co-existence and Rebranding: Perhaps the merged company will keep both services alive, possibly rebranding Sling TV as a budget-friendly tier within the DirecTV Stream family. This would allow them to target different audiences, but could be more complex to manage.
• Scenario 3: Sling TV Shut Down: The worst-case scenario for Sling TV fans is its complete shutdown. If the merged company decides to focus on DirecTV Stream, Sling TV could be sacrificed, leaving its loyal users scrambling for alternatives.

What This Means for Cord-Cutters

This merger could significantly impact your streaming experience. Will prices rise? Will channel lineups change? Will your favorite features disappear? It's crucial to stay informed and consider your options.

My Take

As a cord-cutting blogger and a fan of Sling TV's affordability, I'm hoping it survives in some form. Losing a $40 streaming option would be a blow to budget-conscious viewers like myself.

My Streaming Life may change because of this, but I certainly don't want that. What do you think about this merger? Share your predictions and concerns in the comments!