This week on TechHive: How to cut cable without a pricey channel bundle
Confession time: Although it’s my job to review and write about streaming channel bundles such as Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, and the new YouTube TV, I have little interest in using them personally. Most of my TV consumption comes from Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO, all of which are available without a traditional channel bundle. As such, I’ve established a viewing pattern that largely avoids advertisements, is highly flexible, and is much cheaper than cable. Eight years after cutting cable TV, I don’t feel compelled to tack on a big bundle of streaming TV channels.

This week’s column challenges the notion that you need a streaming bundle to cut the cord. While I’ve defended these bundles as a potential alternative to cable before, sacrificing those channels can yield a purer—and arguably, better—form of cord cutting. Read the full column on TechHive.

Weekly Rewind

Sports-free TV bundles (perhaps): It’s no secret that sports are the most expensive part of any channel bundle. Now, several networks that don’t carry sports–including AMC, Discovery, and Viacom–are scheming to build bundles that don’t include any sports channels. Sources tell Bloomberg that these networks are in talks with pay TV distributors to roll up their channels into a streaming package for less than $20 per month.

There are a couple problems with this plan: Any package that omits ESPN would also lack Disney and ABC channels. Same goes with Fox Sports and Fox-owned channels like FX and National Geographic. And because ESPN’s agreements with distirbutors tend to require the channel’s inclusion in the most popular pay TV packages, things could get nasty if a sports-free plan gets too many subscribers. All the more reason to avoid this bundle business entirely. (See above.)

Roku TV’s antenna embrace: A new software update for Roku-powered smart TVs adds some helpful features for antenna users. While vieiwng live broadcasts, you can optionally let Roku recognize what’s on, and recommend related content. Antenna users will also get thumbnail previews when fast forwarding or rewinding live TV (if you have at least 16 GB of USB storage connected) and can create a list of favorite channels. Now all we need is USB tuner support on Roku’s streaming boxes.

Roku’s release notes reveal a couple other noteworthy tidbits: Roku 4 owners can now listen privately on headphones via Roku’s mobile app, just like all 2016 models. Roku’s developer highlights also mention a microphone API, which could pave the way for voice search within individual apps.

More Catch-Up

Save More Money
A third-party seller on Amazon is currently selling Tablo’s two-tuner over-the-air DVR for $130, plus $5.50 for shipping. That’s by far the lowest price I’ve seen for a Tablo, and is about $85 less than the full retail price. (If you’re skittish about third-party sellers, the same product is $167.23 with Amazon fulfillment and Prime shipping, which is still a great deal.)

With Tablo, you plug an antenna and your own external hard drive into the box, then connect it to your network over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. You can then use Tablo’s apps for streaming boxes, game consoles, phones, tablets, and computers to watch live or recorded TV from an antenna. It’s the best over-the-air DVR solution for most people–especially at this price.

Thanks for reading!

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Until next week,
Jared