The Mystery of Streaming TV Debunked

Many are familiar with cable television and the programming it offers. But as technology advances and people continue relying on the Internet to support their homes, many are increasingly looking to streaming for entertainment. However, most still ask, can you access the same programming cable TV offers?

The short answer is a resounding yes and even more! While TV streaming matches what cable television offers, especially local programming, it has many other benefits for subscribers. The most challenging part of streaming, with all its options and the ability to view content at any time on any device, is deciding which platform or combination of platforms is right for you. As streaming becomes more popular and cable becomes less affordable, more subscribers are taking the plunge.

What Is Streaming TV?

Streaming resembles the traditional way people used to watch TV via cable. However, it allows them to use the Internet to watch shows, movies, sports, or news channels across many devices in real-time or on demand. Streaming TV accesses video entertainment over the Internet rather than through broadcast, cable, or satellite services. It can be accessed on most devices that can connect to the Internet, including smart TVs, smartphones, computers, and tablets.

There are several ways to connect to streaming services. You can connect to a streaming service through your smart TV’s interface, directly from streaming sites, apps, or a web browser. Streaming is also available through services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Hulu, among many others.

How Does Streaming TV Work?

You should have a reliable Internet connection with enough speed for streaming services. Utah Broadband Internet offers a lag-free, HD streaming experience with packages ranging from 100 Mbps to 2 Gig.

What Types of Streaming Content Are There?

Several different streaming options provide programming flexibility, ranging from traditional broadcast to cable television. Here is a rundown:

  • Live TV streaming services involve being able to watch live content happening in real time. Many platforms offer live TV, such as Hulu + Live TV. With platforms like this, you can access all your favorite channels just like traditional cable.
  • On-demand streaming involves having instant access to videos from online libraries. It’s become one of the most preferred ways to watch video content. On-demand video streaming lets viewers decide how, where, and when to view media content.
  • Free streaming gives you access to news, videos, and TV shows without spending a single cent on a subscription. With several free services available, it’s easy to start watching. While some content may include ads, you’ll still enjoy great entertainment at no cost.
Cable TV Is Easy to Access – What About Streaming TV?

Here-in lies probably the most significant “misconception” with streaming TV versus cable television – it is hard to access and to know what is on or available at what time. Cable television has an easy-to-use guide and usually a search function to find programming simply without hassle.

Now, more and more Internet providers are offering easy-to-use interfaces or platforms similar to what cable provides to allow for simplifying streaming services. MyBundle TV is an example of such a platform. Based on a fiber Internet subscriber’s preferences and favorite channels, MyBundle’s Find My Bundle tool will determine which Live TV package is best for the subscriber, making the transition to streaming TV seamless. MyBundle and other platforms, including local television stations, can configure a content package for a subscriber and provide an easy-to-use interface to start getting programming based on preferences quickly. As technology with these platforms, such as MyBundle, advances, they will make the streaming experience even more enjoyable and easy to set up and use,

How Can One Get Started Streaming?

Today’s technology has made streaming TV on devices more accessible than ever before. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1) Select a Streaming Device

The streaming device allows you to connect to the Internet and stream programs. Options include:

  • Smart TV
  • Non-Smart TV with a streaming device added (like Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Chromecast, FireTV, or Roku)
  • Computer
  • Tablet
  • Smartphone
  • Video gaming console

Smart TVs have various options, including voice control and varying visual interfaces, to make streaming the programs you want to watch easier. It’s also helpful to note the TV picture quality and remote-control design when deciding which one to buy. Most people prefer streaming through a Smart TV because it is already set up to stream with minimal effort or knowledge. They come customized with a user-friendly search system and access to many streaming services. These TVs have incredible HD pictures and come pre-installed with streaming apps like Amazon Prime, Disney, HBO Max, Hulu, and Netflix.

Step 2) Select the Most Appropriate Streaming Service

A streaming service provides you with the channels and programs you want to watch. Use your computer, tablet, or smartphone to create an account with your preferred streaming service. You can usually do this from the service’s website or by downloading an app from the app store. Then, log into the service using the device you wish to use to stream the service.

If you are using a TV to connect to your streaming service, apps for popular services are probably available on the homepage. However, you may be required to download an app to use a service not already preloaded on your television. Some popular streaming services include:

·         HBO Max
·         Hulu
·      Netflix
·         YouTube TV

If it’s your first time using the streaming application, you will need to fill in your details and choose the subscription that fits your budget and content preference. For example, if you watch a lot of live TV, you may opt for something like YouTube TV. If you’re mainly interested in movies or TV shows, a Hulu and Disney+ bundle may be more up your alley. If you’re searching for the right streaming service, MyBundle packages these together and has it all available in the same place with easy accessibility in a customized fashion just for you.

Why Should People Switch from Cable to Streaming TV?

Contrary to the belief that streaming is new or untested, it’s actually been around for years. Switching from cable to streaming was rare and driven by cost-cutting, but it has become mainstream. Many people turned to streaming during the pandemic as a way to expand their entertainment options while social distancing. The growing demand for high-speed content and gaming has fueled its popularity and accessibility in recent years.

There are several compelling reasons to consider switching from cable to streaming TV:

·         Cost savings: Many streaming services cost less than $10 a month, making them a more affordable option than rising cable or satellite prices. Even with multiple subscriptions, streaming can still be more cost-effective.

·         Exclusive content: Popular shows like Netflix Originals and Apple TV programs are only available through their respective streaming platforms, offering content you can’t get with traditional cable.

·         Access to first-run movies: With the shift away from theaters, streaming services like Disney+ and HBO Max often offer first-run movies, allowing you to enjoy new releases from home.

·         Binge-watch convenience: Streaming lets you watch entire seasons of TV shows at your own pace, so you never miss an episode.

·         Watch anywhere, anytime: Whether at home or on the go, you can enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows anytime, anywhere, as long as you have internet access—whether through WI-FI or cellular on your smartphone.

The biggest reason to switch to streaming is cost savings, with many people reducing their cable bills by 60-70% while still accessing the same, or even more, programming. As streaming has gained popularity, it’s become more expensive for cable companies to maintain their services, and these rising costs are often passed on to the consumer.

Utah Broadband to Sponsor Charleston Pioneer Days on July 24

Utah-Based ISP to Show Community Support at the Pioneer Day Event Featuring Parade, Booths, Entertainment, Fireworks and More

Draper, UT – June 17, 2024 – Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet service provider and a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE: BOC), will sponsor Charleston, UT’s Pioneer Day Celebration and firework display. UBB’s participation is an effort to further show its commitment to the community and support for local events as it strives to engage with residents.

“We are very happy to support Charleston’s Pioneer Day celebration to commemorate the early settlers in the greater Salt Lake Valley,” said UBB’s CEO Ben Elkins. “Utah Broadband wants to be more engaged with the communities it serves, and we think the Charleston Town Pioneer Day Celebration is a perfect venue to show that support. We are really looking forward to the event,  especially the fireworks.”

The 2024 Charleston Pioneer Day Celebration will be hosted at Charleston Park on Wednesday, July 24th, celebrations begin at 6:45 a.m. and continue through the evening.  The park is located at 3527 W. 3600 S, Charleston, UT 84032. Last year, over 3,000 guests attended the event throughout the day. Activities planned include a fantastic performance by the Wildwood country band, a parade, food trucks, silent and live auctions, kids’ activities and games in the park, and an epic fireworks display. UBB is one of the event’s main sponsors, as well as the fireworks sponsor.

Abi Breur Joins Utah Broadband Marketing Team

Utah-Based ISP to Emphasize Marketing to Grow Presence in Park City and Surrounding Areas

Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet provider and a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE: BOC), announced today the appointment of Abi Breur as marketing associate for UBB as it works to increase awareness and visibility in the greater Salt Lake City/Park City region.

“We welcome Abi aboard to help us further our presence in the Park City and surrounding areas,” said Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband. “One of our big marketing efforts for this year is to get more involved with the community to demonstrate the quality of service we offer, and Abi is an important addition to drive that initiative.”

Breur comes to UBB from Alpha-Lit Marquee Letters, a national promotional marketing company with an office in Salt Lake City, where she assisted with event coordination. She also held a marketing position with Richmond American Homes, a national homebuilder. Breur holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Westminster University, Salt Lake City, and a Master of Science in marketing from Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA.

“I am excited to join the UBB team and I’m ready to dive in and help grow the business,” Breur said. “UBB has a great presence in the Park City area and we offer great service and value to our customers. I’m looking forward to help drive the business and create a greater presence here.”

Utah Broadband serves seven counties along the Wasatch Front and Wasatch Back. In this extremely competitive market, the company has grown consistently year-over-year, increasing revenue significantly over the past few years. In 2021, while continuing to expand the wireless market, the company started offering fiber to the home (FTTH) in addition to its fixed wireless solutions, leading to recent growth.

 About Utah Broadband

 Utah Broadband has consistently been ranked one of the best internet providers in Utah. Since 2002, Utah Broadband has proudly served communities of the Wasatch Front and Back and is known for providing customers with fast and reliable Internet speeds at a great value. Utah Broadband is a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE:BOC).

Utah Broadband Appoints Ben Elkins as New CEO

Arizona’s AireBeam CEO to Work in Both Capacities

Draper, UT – May 15, 2024 – Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet provider and a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE: BOC), announced today the appointment of Ben Elkins as its new CEO, following the retirement of Taunya Martin, former president of Utah Broadband. Elkins is presently CEO of AireBeam, a visionary Internet service provider and a Boston Omaha Corporation subsidiary based in Arizona City, AZ. He will assume Utah Broadband’s CEO position as an additional role for Boston Omaha Broadband.

“We are very pleased that Ben will be taking over at Utah Broadband,” said Butch Burgers, Chief Business Officer at Boston Omaha Broadband. “Ben has achieved an incredible amount of success at AireBeam and we know he will bring the same energy and passion to Utah Broadband to help it further its customer base in the Salt Lake area.”

Utah Broadband serves seven counties along the Wasatch Front and Back. In this very competitive market, the company has grown consistently year-over-year, increasing revenue significantly over the past few years. In 2021, while continuing to expand the wireless market, the company started offering fiber to the home (FTTH) in addition to its fixed wireless solutions, driving recent growth.

As Utah Broadband’s CEO, Elkins brings over 20 years of experience in telecommunications and strong management skills in the areas of sales and business development, strategy, negotiations, and P&L responsibility in a variety of networking sectors, including with ISPs. In his second year as

the CEO of AireBeam, he saw Arizona’s fastest-growing fiber-to-the-home and fixed wireless Internet service provider expand exponentially to become one of the leading providers in the state. During Elkin’s two-year tenure, AireBeam increased fiber subscribers by 375 percent and increased overall customer count by 20 percent. AireBeam increased EBITDA by 31 percent from 2021 to 2023 as well. Elkins plans to bring the same growth plan to Utah Broadband.

“I am pleased to take on this new challenge and honored Boston Omaha Broadband trusts me to expand and grow Utah Broadband’s business. And, I want to recognize the amazing culture Taunya has built over the last 18 years,” Elkins said. “I’ll be able to bring some of the best practices we’ve cultivated at AireBeam and apply them to Utah Broadband to better serve customers and expand the business. I look forward to Utah Broadband continuing to be known for its outstanding customer service and great value.”

About Utah Broadband

Utah Broadband has consistently been ranked one of the best Internet providers in Utah. Since 2002, Utah Broadband has proudly served communities of the Wasatch Front and Back and is known for providing customers with fast and reliable Internet speeds at a great value. Utah Broadband is a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE:BOC).

Utah Broadband’s President and COO Taunya Martin to Retire After 18 Years at Utah Broadband

Building Teams and Company Culture Hallmarks of Career Achievements

Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet provider and a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE: BOC), announced today the retirement of Taunya Martin, Utah Broadband’s President, after 18 years of service.

Taunya came to Utah Broadband in 2006 as General Manager and as her career progressed, she was promoted to COO and then President. “Taunya has made huge contributions to Utah Broadband over her tenure,” said Steven McGhie, Boston Omaha Broadband’s CEO. “She has boundless energy and is always innovative in her approach to business challenges and problems. Taunya will be greatly missed but we are excited for her to enter this next chapter of life.”

Utah Broadband serves seven counties along the Wasatch Front and Wasatch Back. In this very competitive market, the company has grown consistently year-over-year, increasing revenue to over 5X during this time. In 2021, while continuing to expand the wireless market, Taunya led the company in the deployment of fiber to the home (FTTH). “We built a fiber team from scratch including engineering through construction,” Taunya noted, “And we have since laid over 100 miles of fiber. UBB is known for their robust network and exceptional customer service which has resulted in record numbers of fiber customers added in each community.”

To help control costs, Taunya implemented the concept of Lean (a set of management practices to improve efficiency and effectiveness by eliminating waste) beginning with the fiber construction teams and moving it throughout the company. Though Lean was originally used in a manufacturing environment, she has proven there are endless ways Lean can be implemented to streamline businesses making them more efficient and profitable.

“The key to UBB’s success is our people,” Taunya emphasized. “When you hire the right individuals and provide them with opportunities to grow personally and professionally, they become the driving force behind implementing your strategies and achieving company goals.” 

According to Steven McGhie, “Taunya has built a strong team at Utah Broadband. Her doors are always open to discussing ideas and mentoring employees. She is the driving force behind our strong culture.”

Asked about her future, Taunya explained that she is exploring several options but is looking closely at service opportunities in her community utilizing the skills she has developed over the years. And of course, she is always looking forward to spending more time with her family.

 About Utah Broadband

 Utah Broadband has consistently been ranked one of the best internet providers in Utah. Since 2002, Utah Broadband has proudly served communities of the Wasatch Front and Back and is known for providing customers with fast and reliable Internet speeds at a great value. Utah Broadband is a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE:BOC).