GCI, a major telecommunications provider in Alaska, has announced it will discontinue its traditional cable TV service in mid-2025. The company will transition its remaining cable subscribers to online streaming services, marking another victory for cord-cutting and highlighting the ongoing decline of traditional television.
In a letter to subscribers, GCI acknowledged the trend towards online video consumption, stating that “customers increasingly choose online video streaming as their preferred way to watch their favorite programming.” The company emphasized its commitment to providing “the best Internet and mobile data experience in Alaska” as it shifts its focus away from cable television.
In a statement to the Anchorage Daily News GCI said ”We have seen a decline in our TV subscribers over the years as more customers choose online video streaming options and they represent a very small percentage of our overall customer base.”
End of an Era for Cable in Alaska
GCI’s decision follows a similar move by Ketchikan Public Utilities in September, which shut down its cable TV system due to subscriber attrition and rising costs. These developments signify a shift in the Alaskan media landscape, where online streaming is rapidly becoming the dominant mode of entertainment consumption.
Impact on Subscribers
GCI has not disclosed its exact cable subscriber count, but federal records indicate it has at least 10,000 cable TV customers. The company is recommending Xumo, a joint venture between Comcast and Charter, as a streaming alternative. GCI will also provide support for customers transitioning to other popular streaming platforms like YouTube TV, Netflix, and Disney+.
Uncertain Future for GCI
GCI’s move away from cable TV comes amidst uncertainty about its future ownership. Liberty Broadband, GCI’s parent company, is currently in negotiations with Charter Communications regarding a potential acquisition. However, Charter CEO Christopher Winfrey has expressed reservations about including GCI in the deal. It remains unclear how GCI’s exit from the cable TV market will impact these negotiations.
The Death of Cable TV
GCI’s decision reflects a broader trend across the United States, where cord-cutting continues to erode traditional cable TV subscriptions. Increasingly a growing number of small cable TV providers are shutting down and focusing on their internet services.