On Thursday, several Fox channels went dark on Dish and Sling TV. This effectively removed FS1, FS2, Big 10 Network, Fox Soccer Plus, and Fox Deportes, along with taking away local channels in 17 markets spanning 23 states.
Dish is now reminding customers that there are other ways to watch this content, starting with antennas. The company is offering free digital OTA antennas to Dish customers. “A digital antenna is a great experience and solution for a growing number of customers,” said Andy LeCuyer, DISH senior vice president of Programming. “The channels integrate seamlessly into the Hopper interface. Plus, switching to antenna-delivered locals can unlock $144 savings annually. We want to give customers the choice to save money.”
As DISH works to reach an agreement, the company is offering digital over-the-air antennas at no cost to DISH customers in the affected markets. Customers who use a digital antenna are able to access news, sports and popular network shows from Fox, and have the option to completely drop their local channels from their programming package to save $12 on their monthly bill. DISH will install an antenna for qualifying customers in Fox markets based on the reception available at their home.
They’re also recommending that customers in Locast markets try out the free service, making this statement:
Another viewing alternative is offered by Locast, a free nonprofit service that provides local broadcast channels over the internet in select markets. Locast is available on connected DISH Hopper devices. Customers can visit locast.org to learn more.
This may not be exactly the news Dish customers are looking for, but these two solutions will certainly save customers money while giving them the content they lost earlier this week.
Did you know we have a YouTube Channel? Every week we have a live Cord Cutting Q&A, and weekly Cord Cutting recap shows exclusively on our YouTube Channel!
Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help.