In our last edition, we discussed how to use a device to stream media to a TV or other larger-display option. This week we’ll talk about how to get the news, movies or other things on your device in the first place.
Let’s say you have a smartphone, computer or other device. You’ve had cable in the past, but you’re simplifying a little bit and that’s one thing you’ve cut out of your budget. However, you still want to catch the news, watch your favorite TV program, or maybe enjoy some classics like “I Love Lucy,” “Bonanza,” or “Knight Rider.” Well you’re not out of luck, let’s talk about some of your options.
News Networks
You can catch all your national and international news on the web by visiting your preferred network’s webpage. Often times stories get reported here first, plus you can customize your news feed to get updates on the topics that matter most to you. Networks like NBC, CNN and Fox all stream news on their websites. They also have custom apps available for your smartphone so you’re never out of touch. Want to get the news but without the mainstream spin? Check out some alternative news sites like The Drudge Report, InfoWars and RT News.
Local news stations also post news to their websites so you don’t have to miss out on local content. Many local news stations only stream content while they are “on air,” meaning the 6 o’clock news will only be online at 6. These stations are also available over the air, so if you've dropped your cable plan a simple antennae may fill that void.
Movies and TV Shows
The big three of online streaming remain Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, although you can rent movies on YouTube and other sites as well. Like your cable plan however, none of these sites offer absolutely everything, so you may find some shows are missing. On the plus side though, most of these companies are starting their own “TV” shows that rival anything the major networks have. While Amazon and Netflix require subscriptions for access to their content, Hulu still offers classic shows including “The Fall Guy” and “The A-Team” for free (with ads), as well as old seasons of modern shows such as “Iron Chef America” and “The Flash.”
A great alternative to YouTube is Vimeo. While similar in concept, Vimeo caters toward more professional content, (you probably won’t find cat videos here) no ads, and a cleaner interface.
Livestream is a website that collects live “TV” streams from other providers so you can access them from one site. You can also upload content to Livestream yourself. So instead of just watching the news, why not try making the news yourself?
Rental Kiosks, Libraries and Theaters
In spite of the tremendous amount of online content, DVD and BluRay discs can still be rented from devices like Redbox or their local alternatives. Your local library may also have a good selection of movies and TV shows on DVD that you can borrow. These options are not only convenient, but also cost effective when compared to cable or subscription-based services.
Don’t forget The Stanley Theater is a great local option too!
A Note of Caution
Some “news” sites have advertisements that appear to be news stories, these ads often take you to a different website and may be a source of infections. An excellent way to avoid these ads in the first place is to use Google Chrome as your web browser with the Adblock Plus extension installed. Adblock Plus will prevent these ads from showing in the first place so you won’t be tempted to click on the “news” ad for “New Drug to Burn Fat”!
When searching for content to stream online, it might be tempting to find “free” movies. Sites may advertise the latest Hollywood blockbusters for “free,” but content like this is often obtained and distributed illegally, and may contain malicious software that can harm your computer.
Remember, if you have downloaded malicious content because you begin to get popups or other suspicious things showing up, we’re just a phone call away and are happy to help keep your computer running fast and securely.
This is another topic suggested to us by a customer. Let us know if you have a subject you want us to cover!
Let’s say you have a smartphone, computer or other device. You’ve had cable in the past, but you’re simplifying a little bit and that’s one thing you’ve cut out of your budget. However, you still want to catch the news, watch your favorite TV program, or maybe enjoy some classics like “I Love Lucy,” “Bonanza,” or “Knight Rider.” Well you’re not out of luck, let’s talk about some of your options.
News Networks
You can catch all your national and international news on the web by visiting your preferred network’s webpage. Often times stories get reported here first, plus you can customize your news feed to get updates on the topics that matter most to you. Networks like NBC, CNN and Fox all stream news on their websites. They also have custom apps available for your smartphone so you’re never out of touch. Want to get the news but without the mainstream spin? Check out some alternative news sites like The Drudge Report, InfoWars and RT News.
Local news stations also post news to their websites so you don’t have to miss out on local content. Many local news stations only stream content while they are “on air,” meaning the 6 o’clock news will only be online at 6. These stations are also available over the air, so if you've dropped your cable plan a simple antennae may fill that void.
Movies and TV Shows
The big three of online streaming remain Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, although you can rent movies on YouTube and other sites as well. Like your cable plan however, none of these sites offer absolutely everything, so you may find some shows are missing. On the plus side though, most of these companies are starting their own “TV” shows that rival anything the major networks have. While Amazon and Netflix require subscriptions for access to their content, Hulu still offers classic shows including “The Fall Guy” and “The A-Team” for free (with ads), as well as old seasons of modern shows such as “Iron Chef America” and “The Flash.”
A great alternative to YouTube is Vimeo. While similar in concept, Vimeo caters toward more professional content, (you probably won’t find cat videos here) no ads, and a cleaner interface.
Livestream is a website that collects live “TV” streams from other providers so you can access them from one site. You can also upload content to Livestream yourself. So instead of just watching the news, why not try making the news yourself?
Rental Kiosks, Libraries and Theaters
In spite of the tremendous amount of online content, DVD and BluRay discs can still be rented from devices like Redbox or their local alternatives. Your local library may also have a good selection of movies and TV shows on DVD that you can borrow. These options are not only convenient, but also cost effective when compared to cable or subscription-based services.
Don’t forget The Stanley Theater is a great local option too!
A Note of Caution
Some “news” sites have advertisements that appear to be news stories, these ads often take you to a different website and may be a source of infections. An excellent way to avoid these ads in the first place is to use Google Chrome as your web browser with the Adblock Plus extension installed. Adblock Plus will prevent these ads from showing in the first place so you won’t be tempted to click on the “news” ad for “New Drug to Burn Fat”!
When searching for content to stream online, it might be tempting to find “free” movies. Sites may advertise the latest Hollywood blockbusters for “free,” but content like this is often obtained and distributed illegally, and may contain malicious software that can harm your computer.
Remember, if you have downloaded malicious content because you begin to get popups or other suspicious things showing up, we’re just a phone call away and are happy to help keep your computer running fast and securely.
This is another topic suggested to us by a customer. Let us know if you have a subject you want us to cover!
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