This week, we learned that T-Mobile is drastically shaking up its live TV streaming plans by shutting down its TVision service and, instead, partnering with YouTube TV and Philo. Meanwhile, Univision launched a new Spanish-language streaming service of its own. And Netflix looks to double down on anime and anime-influenced animation in 2021.
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.
T-Mobile Shuts Down TVision, Partners with YouTube TV and Philo
Just five months after it first launched, T-Mobile announced it’s planning to shut down its TVision live TV streaming service by April 29th. Instead, the company will pivot to partners like YouTube TV and Philo to offer live TV access.
Read more about the TVision decision here.
Univision’s PrendeTV Launches with over 10,000 Hours of Content
Univision announced the launch of its own streaming service — an ad-supported, Spanish-language service called PrendeTV. The company says the new option boasts some 40 channels and over 10,000 hours of content.
Check out the details on PrendeTV here.
Here’s What to Expect When the Bally Sports App Launches
The Bally Sports app was expected to launch this week, replacing the Fox Sports Go app as part of Sinclair’s RSN rebranding deal. However, as of the writing of this post, that switch hasn’t happened just yet. Still, we’ve got useful info on what to expect with the transition.
Learn more about the shift to Bally Sports RSNs here.
Google Kids Profiles are Now Available, Here’s How to Set One Up for Chromecast With Google TV
We reported earlier that a new Kids Profile feature would be coming to Google TV and we learned this week that feature is starting to pop up for users. Check out our link below to learn how to set one up for your kids.
See how to set up a new Kids Profile in Google TV here.
Hardware Spotlight
A look at the latest streaming and cord-cutting gear
Amazon’s New Remote Is Also Available Via Third-Gen Fire TV Stick Bundle
Last week, we reported on Amazon’s newest Fire TV remote control, which adds four direct-access buttons for popular streaming services, including Prime Video (naturally). And while the remote is available for preorder by itself, the company is also offering up its new input device as part of a bundle with its third-generation Fire TV Stick.
Find out the details on the Fire TV Stick bundle here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
Fresh Apple TV Rumors Point to New Remote, Link to Next-Gen Model Unlikely
What started as a rumor early in the week pointing to a potential new Apple TV model ended up being decidedly less exciting. Even so, there still could be a chance Apple has new streaming hardware on the horizon.
Check out the latest rumors here.
Sling TV and Dish Remove Regional Sports Networks and MASN
We’ve got another carriage dispute on our hands as Dish and Sling TV have removed MASN and several NBC regional sports networks from their lineups. The two sides have yet to come to an agreement, but we’ll keep an eye on the situation as it evolves.
Learn more about the carriage dispute details here.
Philo Launches Classic TV Collection (and a Fun April Fools Day Surprise)
Philo announced a new Classic TV Collection that includes a variety of curated shows like Frasier, Golden Girls, and more. To kick things off, the company offered a setting to watch shows in black-and-white during April Fool’s Day.
Find out more about Philo’s new Classic TV Collection here.
Netflix is Adding 40 Anime Titles to its Library in 2021
It looks like Netflix is investing more in anime and anime-inspired animated content this year. Spurred on by the success of shows like Blood of Zeus, the streamer is reportedly adding some 40 titles this year.
See what Netflix has planned for animation fans here.
Deal Alert
Save some cash with these current and upcoming deals.
T-Mobile Customers Can Get MLB.TV for Free
T-Mobile is offering up a free season of MLB.TV to customers, which represents a $129.99 savings. Those looking to switch to T-Mobile have until April 5th to get in on the offer.