Verizon Introduces 'Stream' OTT Player
Verizon has debuted a new streaming client which it calls Stream and is offering it free to its 5G Home subscribers.
The new device is powered by Google’s Chromecast OTT software interface and includes “nearly unlimited” cloud DVR storage space, according to Verizon. Notably, the No. 1 U.S. wireless company is offering Disney+ free for a year to its 5G fixed wireless customers. And it’s also offering them a month free of vMVPD service YouTube TV.
Other OTT apps within the confines of the Google Play Store are available. But Verizon Stream does include one serious limitation: It doesn’t have support for the Netflix app.
In addition to its Chromecast interface, the Verizon Stream includes Google Assistant voice technology and surround sound speaker capability.
Verizon is offering Stream to non 5G Home customers for $70.
For Verizon, it’s another pivot away from traditional pay TV. The wireless company reported another 67,000 lost customers for its Fios TV linear service in the third quarter.
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Daniel Frankel is the managing editor of Next TV, an internet publishing vertical focused on the business of video streaming. A Los Angeles-based writer and editor who has covered the media and technology industries for more than two decades, Daniel has worked on staff for publications including E! Online, Electronic Media, Mediaweek, Variety, paidContent and GigaOm. You can start living a healthier life with greater wealth and prosperity by following Daniel on Twitter today!