Just about a year ago, Hulu got the pay TV world buzzing with reports that it planned to launch a live TV programming skinny bundle, and some analysts at that time guessed it would go for around $40/month. On Wednesday, the company launched its Live TV Beta Service on Apple TV, Xbox One, iOS and Android devices, and Chromecast for $39.99/month. Hulu joins a slate of other internet-delivered TV providers, including DirecTV Now, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Sony’s PlayStation Vue. The “beta” nomenclature is an interesting tactic, especially given some of the technical gremlins that got a lot of unwanted attention after the launch of similar services like DirecTV Now.
“I don’t think we are designing this for people that are really happy with their pay TV service,” Hulu CEO Mike Hopkins told the NYT last year. “This is designed for the people that the marketplace is concerned are falling out of love with pay TV.”
Customers who subscribe to the beta of Hulu with Live TV can access live and on demand programming from more than 50 channels. They’ll also get Hulu’s existing streaming library (with commercials) for their 40 bucks. The service includes 50 hours of recording storage, up to six individual profiles, and two simultaneous streams per account, with options to upgrade to an enhanced cloud DVR and unlimited in-home screens.
Content from broadcast networks ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC is reportedly available “in many markets, with more to follow.” Other channels include CBS Sports, ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports, TNT, regional sports networks, CNN, CNBC, Fox News, Fox Business, MSNBC, Bravo, E!, Food Network, HGTV, Travel Channel, A&E, Cartoon Network/Adult Swim, Disney Channel, Freeform, FX, History, Lifetime, National Geographic, TBS, USA Network, Viceland, and more.
More on pricing and programming options is available here.
