YouTube’s New Streaming Cable Service Is Finally Available In Parts Of Maine
The cord cutting generation now has another option for watching the shows they love...at least in parts of Maine anyway. YouTube TV, which launched in select markets back in April, has finally arrived in both Portland and the Lewiston/Auburn area as an alternative to standard cable delivery as well as some of the other streaming cable options already on the market.
YouTube TV follows the path already paved by Sling TV and PlayStation Vue, offering consumers a chance to stream their favorite channels via an internet connection rather than have wired cable service. The drawback for most consumers has been the loss of localized ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox affiliates, as well as localized sports channels like NESN and NBC Sports Boston.
PlayStation Vue was the first to clear up the sports issue, offering an extended sports pack, featuring streams for both NESN and NBC Sports Boston. YouTube TV will offer both of those key channels are part of their New England package. The local network affiliates are still a work in progress however. Base packages for YouTube TV start at $35, which is cheaper than PlayStation's base package. Both services offer unlimited DVR as well as on-demand services.
One final thing that could make cord cutting far more difficult is the impending decision on net neutrality rules and what effects it would have on the streaming market. Stay tuned on that.