I would think that this does qualify as a VMVPD, by the FCC's definition. It
looks like they are going for a national footprint, and once again, without
needing any FCC involvement. The owners of the content appear interested in
pursuing these new distribution options, regardless.
The only fly in the ointment, at least so far, is that only a few devices can
be used (Sony Playstations, Amazon boxes, plus iPhones and iPads with the Vue
app). I suppose another VMVPD could emerge with similar offerings, and fewer
device restrictions, to compete, even without needing to offer drastically
different bundles.
Bert
----------------------------------------
http://www.tvtechnology.com/news/0002/playstation-vue-goes-national/278138
PlayStation Vue Goes National
Cloud-based TV service offering Slim multi-channel plans starting at
$29.99/month
March 14, 2016
By Michael Balderston
SAN MATEO, CALIF.-PlayStation Vue is now 50 for 50, with Sony Network
Entertainment International announcing that the cloud-based TV service is now
available nationwide. After launching a year ago and being available in markets
like New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco and
Miami, PlayStation Vue has expanded its reach to an additional 203 TV
designated market areas, according to Sony.
Consumers in all these markets will be able to access PlayStation Vue's Slim
multi-channel plans, which start at $29.99/month. These "slim" plans include
live and on-demand content. Content from ABC, Fox and NBC will only be
available as on-demand content as part of the Slim plans, with most on-demand
content becoming available within 24 hours of airing. Sony says that CBS live
and on-demand content will be added to select markets at a later date.
There are three multi-channel plans available to consumers as of this
announcement:
*Access Slim - 55+ channels, including live cable TV, movies and sports
channels for $29.99/month.
*Core Slim - 70+ channels, including all Access Slim channels and the addition
of live national and regional sports networks for $34.99/month.
*Elite Slim - 100+ channels, including all channels from Core Slim package,
with the addition of movie and entertainment channels for $44.99/month.
All plans include a seven-day free trial for first time subscribers, Sony
reports.
Additional features of the Playstation Vue include Cloud DVR, simultaneous
streaming across different devices, and an intuitive interface with search and
discovery tools.
Consumers can access PlayStation Vue with an Internet connection and a
PlayStation Vue TV-connected device, which-according to Sony-includes a
PlayStation 4, PlayStation3, Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, as well as the
PlayStation Vue mobile app through iPad and iPhone.
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