This week, Hulu announced pending price increases for its on-demand streaming plans. Meanwhile, Amazon unveiled a new line of Fire TV gear, including an upgraded Fire TV Stick 4K. We also learned about live TV streaming services bolstering their libraries with new add-on channels. And fuboTV now has an official app on VIZIO’s SmartCast platform.
Here’s what happened in the world of cord cutting and streaming.
Breaking News
Here are some of the top streaming stories from the past week.
Hulu On-Demand Plans Will Get a Price Hike Next Month
This week, Hulu announced price increases for its on demand streaming plans. Monthly rates for its ad-supported and ad-free options are set to increase by $1 on October 8th. Annual pricing for the ad-support tier will also increase from $59.99 to $69.99
Check out the details on Hulu’s price increase here.
FuboTV is Now Available on VIZIO SmartCast TVs
Just in time for the NFL season, fuboTV is now available on VIZIO’s SmartCast smart TV platform. That means VIZIO users no longer need an external device to access the sports-centric live TV streaming service on their SmartCast TVs. The app’s arrival follows the recent appearance of HBO Max on VIZIO’s platform.
Learn more about fuboTV’s SmartCast app here.
How To Stream Live NFL Games
If you’re looking for ways to follow your favorite team during the 2021-2022 NFL season, we’ve put together a video guide on the best options. From live TV streaming services that carry major national networks, to on-demand options with special live streaming options, we’ve got you covered this season.
See how you can stream live NFL games without cable here.
YouTube TV Expands Its Sports Plus Add-On with New Channels
YouTube TV is building upon its existing Sports Plus Add-On package with the addition of new channels, including beIN sports. The optional add-on now includes 16 sports-focused channels for $10.99 per month on top of the standard YouTube TV price of $64.99.
Read more about the expanded Sports Plus Add-On here.
Philo Launches New ‘Movies & More’ Add-On Package and Adds 4 Free Channels
Philo is bolstering its lineup with a Movies & More add-on package, as well as new additions to its free lineup. The Movies & More option includes five film-focused channels, while the new free options include family-friendly options like Ryan and Friends.
The Roku Channel Will Stream a ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist’ Holiday Movie This Winter
Roku’s push into original content continues with its first-ever feature film. It’ll be called “Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas” and it serves as a continuation of the recently canceled “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” The film is set to premiere on The Roku Channel during the holiday season, and past episodes of the show will make their way to the platform as well.
Learn more about Roku turning Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist into its first in-house film here.
How to Stream Local Channels Without Locast
With the recent suspension of Locast’s operations, many might be looking elsewhere for local channel access. We compiled a list of alternatives for those now on the lookout.
Check out our suggestions for local channel access here.
Hardware Spotlight
A look at the latest streaming and cord-cutting gear
Amazon Launches New Fire TV Stick 4K Max and First Ever Amazon Branded TV
As we approach the holiday shopping season, Amazon has announced a new line of Fire TV gear, including Amazon-branded smart TVs and an upgraded Fire TV Stick 4K. The new streaming stick is called the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and the company says it improves upon its predecessor’s performance by 40 percent. Meanwhile, its new smart TV offerings cover a wide variety of screen sizes and price points.
Learn more about Amazon’s new line of Fire TV hardware here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
HBO Max Will Launch in Europe in October
HBO Max is planning to launch in a handful of European countries in October. The company pinpointed six markets for a launch next month, with several more European countries planned for 2022.
Read more on HBO Max’s international rollout plans here.
Deal Alert
Save some cash with these current and upcoming deals.
Save $10/Month on Hulu with Live TV Just in Time for NFL (Limited Time Offer)
While Hulu’s on-demand prices are increasing next month, the company’s live TV plans are staying put. In fact, Hulu’s offering a $10/month discount for a limited time, which could come in handy for all you NFL fans looking for access to game broadcasts without cable.