Altice USA has announced an exciting expansion to its Optimum Stream platform, introducing a new $30-a-month virtual MVPD service named “Entertainment TV.” This addition aims to cater to the evolving viewing habits of its customers, especially those seeking more flexible and affordable TV options.
Launched three years ago, the Optimum Stream device was designed for broadband customers not subscribing to linear TV services. Priced at $5-a-month, this Android TV-powered gadget allows users to stream content from popular platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus, and any app available in the Google Play Store.
The latest expansion broadens Optimum Stream’s reach. Previously available in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey, the service will now extend to 1.5 million additional homes in Western “Suddenlink” territories, including Arkansas, Arizona, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas.
Introducing Entertainment TV
The most notable update is the addition of “Entertainment TV,” a $30-a-month virtual MVPD service that offers more than 80 live channels. This service is designed for customers looking for a comprehensive TV package without the need for sports channels. Some of the popular channels included are:
- A&E
- AMC
- Comedy Central
- Discovery Channel
- Food Network
- Game Show Network
- Great American Family
- Hallmark
- HGTV
- Lifetime
- Nickelodeon
- Paramount Network
- TLC
- We TV
Additionally, Entertainment TV subscribers will have access to local news content from Optimum’s News 12 service, which focuses on the New York tri-state area.
Company Strategy and Customer Focus
This expansion comes at a critical time for Altice USA. The company has been witnessing a decline in its pay TV customer base, losing 78,000 subscribers in Q1 alone, leaving it with 2.1 million pay TV customers as of March. In response, Altice USA is shifting its focus towards bundling internet services with its growing Optimum Mobile products.
Leroy Williams, Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at Optimum, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences. “Optimum is focused on providing superior customer experiences at every touchpoint — backed by a world-class network and product set — and putting our customers at the center of everything we do. This launch demonstrates our commitment to further enhancing the Optimum TV offering and bringing customers innovative TV packages that satisfy their unique viewing habits,” Williams stated.
The introduction of the Entertainment TV service is seen as a strategic move by Altice USA to retain and attract customers in a rapidly changing television landscape. By expanding its Optimum Stream device’s availability and offering a robust, sports-free TV package, Altice USA is positioning itself to meet the diverse needs of modern viewers.
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