[opendtv] Re: TV Technology: PlayStation Vue Goes National
- From: Craig Birkmaier <brewmastercraig@xxxxxxxxxx>
- To: opendtv@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Tue, 15 Mar 2016 07:20:55 -0400
On Mar 14, 2016, at 8:07 PM, Manfredi, Albert E
<albert.e.manfredi@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
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.
Ya think?
They always were pursuing a national footprint - the problem was, and still is
in some cases, obtaining the licensing deals. It looks like they are still
having problems with some of the networks; looking at the web site it is still
not clear what networks I can access here in Gainesville.
Bert missed, and TV Technology glossed over, the biggest news in the
announcement: Sony has added ESPN and Disney to all of the bundles.
So with the exception of live network feeds, it looks like we may finally have
a viable VMVPD option, including a slim bundle that has everything I want.
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.
The device situation is a bit confusing, but better than I expected at this
point; I expected it would only work with PlayStation. It does work with the
iPad and iPhone, however, you cannot use AirPlay to mirror to the big screen;
but you can use them with Chromecast. But you can't use Chromecast alone. But
you can use Amazon Fire TV devices...
Obviously, as Bert likes to say, the collusion is still in its early stages...
Now I have a dilemma...
Do I sign up with Sony immediately, or wait to see how this all settles out?
The fact that they are not supporting Apple TV suggests that there is more to
this story. If Sony can get the licenses, perhaps Apple may be closer to a deal
than they have been letting on. Apple just announced a launch event for March
21st, ostensibly to announce a new iPhone, iPad Pro and Watch upgrades. Perhaps
they will announce a service similar to Sony's for Apple TV as well...
Clearly this is a breakthrough announcement from Sony. And Yes, the FCC did not
need to get involved.
What will Bert and I have left to argue about?
VERY BIG 😎
Regards
Craig
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