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Exciting changes are happening in Foley, Elberta, and Summerdale! Riviera Cable customers will soon transition to Point Broadband’s modern fiber internet network.
The way you watch TV will never be the same -- but don’t worry: What you watch won’t change at all. All your favorite shows, channels, news, sports programs and movies are still there.
So, what’s the big difference?
Put simply, instead of relying on old cable and set-top box technology, fiber lets you stream your TV shows, news, movies and sports via the internet. And, if you already stream some or all shows and movies using cable internet (or satellite or 5G), fiber still has the edge.
Sound complicated? Good news: It’s not. This guide breaks it all down for you.
Before you make the switch to streaming, you may be asking yourself why bother. What’s so special about streaming?
While TV and Internet through cable was okay during its time, but it hasn’t kept up with new tech. If you’re among the 99% of Americans who subscribe to at least one streaming service, then you already know some of the frustrations, such as buffering and outages.
Today, streaming TV with fiber internet offers several advantages over cable, satellite and 5G:
Unlike cable TV, which often locks you into long-term contracts, and sticks you with channels you never watch, streaming lets you choose the streaming services (what we used to call “channels”) you want – and cancel whenever you like. Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ also have ad-supported tiers that allow you to save even more.
Did you know providers often compress signals, which reduces your picture quality, or have data caps that slow your speeds when you use “too much” data? And when you stream using cable internet, bandwidth can't always keep up with all that data you need for higher image quality. The result? Buffering and other annoyances. Fiber can easily handle video data, even with multiple devices and 4K streaming. Finally, you can experience the full glory of that new HD TV!
With cable, you’re tied to watching TV in one place in your home, usually wherever the cable box is installed. Fiber allows you to watch on any device, whether it’s a smart TV, tablet or smart phone.
Good news: It’s easier than you might think. In fact, you may already have most of what you need already:
You’ll need a stable internet connection with plenty of bandwidth. And usually that means fiber, like from Point Broadband, which lets you stream everything you love, even on multiple devices with less buffering than cable even in 4k. Point Broadband has speeds of 2 gigs in some communities they serve. How fast is that? Fast enough for up to stream 10 HD movies at the same time or to download a single 5G HD move in just 20 seconds.
Did you know that 79% of U.S. households have at least one smart TV in their home, meaning they already have apps like Netflix and Hulu built right in? If your TV isn’t a Smart TV, you can use an easy-to-install streaming device like Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV, or Google Chromecast to stream.
If you already subscribe to services like Netflix, Hulu or Disney+., you’re one step ahead. These services give you access to a wide variety of movies, shows and even live TV options. You’ll log in through your TV just like you do on your laptop, phone or tablet. If not, you’ll be able to sign up right from the screen.
Helpful hint: Point Broadband’s Streaming Marketplace is a great resource to find services that are perfect for you.
The answer is no. If you don’t have a Smart TV, don’t worry – there are simple, affordable devices that can make your TV streaming-ready. Small devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV or Chromecast are simple and inexpensive to plug right into your TV.
Here’s how to set it up a streaming device:
1. Plug it in: Most Streaming devices plug into your TV’s HDMI port, usually located on the side or back of your TV. Then plug it into a power source, like the USB port on the TV or a nearby electrical outlet. Consult your device’s user guide.
2. “But my TV is really old.” No worries! Even sets without HDMI ports can connect to streaming device with a simple HDMI-to-AV adapter.
3. Connect to Wi-Fi: Once your device is plugged in and powered, turn on your TV and switch to the correct HDMI input. On-screen prompts will guide you through the setup process, starting with how to connect it to your home Wi-Fi. Keep your password handy!
* Download your favorite apps: After connecting to Wi-Fi, the device will let you download apps for popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu or Disney+. Just log into your existing accounts and start watching. Good news: most devices have popular services pre-installed.
Many streaming services offer live TV options, including local channels. Services like DirecTV Stream, Hulu Plus Live TV and Sling TV include local stations, and you’ll get the added benefit of cloud DVR to record shows and watch them later – without extra equipment.
While setting up your streaming services isn’t tough, there are ways to make it a bit easier.
1. Visit the Point Broadband Streaming Marketplace to find the streaming services that are right for you. Click here to start.
2. Have your logins/passwords ready: If you already have subscriptions to streaming services, make sure you have your login information handy during setup. This will make the process quicker.
3. Keep your remote handy: You’ll need it to enter passwords and navigate menus and schedules. Many streaming devices come with voice-activated remotes, making it easy to search for shows or control playback without navigating complicated menus.
4. BEST TIP OF ALL? Point Broadband can do it all for you! Switching from Riviera cable to Point Broadband? You’re entitled to a year of Point Guard, our premium service plan. Not only will we connect up to 3 of your home’s devices, but we’ll be back in a jiffy if you need a little TLC during the year.
If you have more questions or would like to follow our progress as we upgrade Foley’s internet connectivity, please visit our Foley page.
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