The TV Revolution

The changes to how we receive and view our video content continues.

This is a bit of news from AT&T on their new digital service, bypassing cable TV.

http://www.recode.net/2016/11/29/13772672/directv-now-streaming-tv-competition

Here is a snippet from that:

AT&T finally took the wraps off DirecTV Now, its new streaming TV service, and it’s just what it said it was going to be: The base package, for now, is $35 a month for more than 100 channels.

That’s a lot cheaper than a traditional pay TV service — and a lot cheaper than DirecTV’s own satellite TV service.

Of course, there are strings attached. Or more precisely, there are things that aren’t attached to DirecTV Now.

The world she is a-changing isn't she?

Happy Reading,

J.W. Gant

BRotD - Entry 0228 MLB.com Streaming Video

Best Reading of the Day

The story behind MLB.com and the success of its digital efforts and streaming video is impressive reading.  When you add the recent addition of HBO cutting the cord through this service, and now the news of the NHL coming onboard it becomes truly impressive.

This is your best read of the day:

http://www.theverge.com/2015/8/4/9090897/mlb-bam-live-streaming-internet-tv-nhl-hbo-now-espn

Here is a snippet from the story:

When baseball’s then commissioner, Bud Selig, created BAM back in 2000, he had relatively modest goals in mind. The unit would be in charge of creating websites for each of the teams and consolidating MLB’s digital rights. By pooling resources, he would prevent the bigger teams from outpacing their smaller market rivals. And to keep the division honest and efficient, BAM would operate as its own company. The teams agreed to contribute a combined $120 million to the venture, $1 million each over the first four years, with each taking an equal ownership stake.

Happy Reading,

J.W. Gant

Mobile Augmented Movie Watching

The last time I went to the movies I was quite annoyed at the mobile phone usage going on during the screening.  This is becoming more and more of a "problem" for moviegoers.  Or is it?

Disney is following upon some quiet experimentation around second screen viewing during movie going to augment the customer's experience.  A special app has been released that will work in parallel to special showings of "The Little Mermaid" coming back to theaters near you soon.

How does this picture suit you for the next time you go to the movies?

Some efforts have been made in the past for such an experience however none have been so ambitious.  This article provides some information on the subject:

http://mashable.com/2013/09/11/little-mermaid-ipad/

Here is a snippet from the article:

When the mouse house re-releases the 1989 classic in theaters this week, viewers will be encouraged to bring along their iPads. It’s all part of an interesting new movie-watching experience called “Second Screen Live.”

Powered by the free Disney Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid app, the technology allows viewers to become part of the story. As a result, you’ll be able to interact with Ariel, Sebastian and Flounder.

Times are changing.  Will we soon require two options at movie theaters such as 2nd screen allowed and 2nd screen not allowed?  Just like smoking and non-smoking sections.

Happy reading,

J.W. Gant

**UPDATE**

PC Mag has an article on the subject of 2nd screen viewing in the movie theater.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2424479,00.asp

Enjoy.