2018 is already almost one-fourth over and there has already been a ton of cord cutting news. Now looking forward to the rest of 2018 there are even more stories to watch for.
Here are my top 5 cord cutting stories to keep an eye on for the rest of 2018:
New Live TV Streaming Services
Several new live TV streaming services are slated to roll out in 2018. T-Mobile, Verizon, and Vidgo have all said or are reported to be launching a live TV streaming this year. They will join a long list of live TV streaming services already on the market.
The question now is can they stand out in a crowded market. Keep an eye out for even more options.
Cheaper Live TV Streaming Options
It really looks like we are at the start of a live TV streaming war. Discovery has announced plans to offer a $6 a month streaming service with access to Discovery and Scripps content. AT&T has also announced a $15 a month (free if you have AT&T wireless) live TV streaming service.
Keep an eye on a possible price war as everyone scrambles to find less expensive options.
New Streaming Players & TVs
We already know Roku and Amazon both have new smart TVs coming out this year. Now keep an eye open later this year for new players including a new Android TV device from Google that looks a lot like their Chromecast.
Don’t be surprised if we see several new streaming players roll out this fall.
ATSC 3.0 OTA TV
The new over-the-air TV standard ATSC 3.0 is already live in a few markets for testing. Currently only being used for testing, but look for public testing to roll out in select markets by the end of 2018.
5G Internet
The idea behind 5G is the ability to get fast internet in your home without the need to run a new wire to every home. Already 5G is live in test markets and AT&T has rolled out upgrades in 100 markets around the United States to prepare for a 5G national roll out.
By the end of 2018 Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile all plan to have 5G live in a handful of markets. The plan is by the end of 2019 to speed up the rollout of 5G.
The hope here is like so many advances the roll out of 5G will bring new competition to a market that really does not have any today. Hopefully, in the years to come it will drive down the price.
There are go. My top 5 cord cutting stories to watch for the rest of 2018. Do you have something to add to this list? Leave a comment and let us know what you would add.
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