This week, we learned that Comcast is planning to raise rates on cable, internet, and voice packages starting next month. Meanwhile, Roku introduced a holiday hub to its free streaming platform, and we opened up voting on the 2021 Cordie Awards.
Here’s what happened in the world of cord cutting and streaming.
Breaking News
Here are some of the top streaming stories from the past week.
Comcast Will Increase Cable Costs and Fees in January 2022
Perhaps the biggest story of the week came from Comcast, which disclosed plans to raise rates in January of 2022. The company cited rising costs for broadcast TV and regional sports as key factors in its decision to increase prices.
Learn more about Comcast’s latest price hikes here.
Comcast Offering ACC Network for All Xfinity Customers New Content Carriage Agreement with Disney
Elsewhere, Comcast and Disney reached an agreement on a new carriage deal that keeps Disney-owned networks on Xfinity’s lineup. The deal also allows the new ACC Network to join Xfinity’s roster of available channels.
Check out the details on Comcast’s new deal with Disney here.
The Roku Channel Launches a Holiday Hub
Free streaming platform The Roku Channel is ringing in the holidays with a dedicated content hub. Viewers can check out on-theme shows, movies, and specials, including Roku’s first-ever movie: Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas.
Read more about The Roku Channel’s holiday hub here.
VIZIO Expands Its WatchFree+ Library With 100s of Free Channels
VIZIO is adding free on-demand streaming content to its WatchFree+ library, including thousands of movies and TV show episodes. The available content spans several genres, including action, romance, drama, and more.
Learn more about VIZIO’s latest free offerings here.
Cordie Awards 2021: Vote Now for Your Favorite Streaming Services, Devices & More
It’s that time of year again! Cord Cutters News is once again calling on readers to vote for your favorites in a variety of categories, like Best Streaming Service, Best New Streaming Device, and Best Original Streaming Content. Check out the categories and vote now!
Sound off in the 2021 Cordie Awards here.
Hardware Spotlight
A look at the latest streaming and cord-cutting gear
Picking the Right Roku: 5 Current Models Compared
This week, we took a closer look at Roku’s current streaming device lineup. If you’re shopping for new gear this holiday season and you’re wondering how Roku’s various offerings stack up against each other, it’s worth checking out.
Explore Roku’s current hardware lineup here.
And check out our video roundup of Roku’s lineup here.
Industry Report
What’s the latest on the industry?
Survey: 63% of Respondents Said They’d Watch Disney+ More if it Had More Content for Adults
A new survey suggests a majority of viewers would check out Disney+ more often if the streaming service offered more content that catered to adults. The service certainly skews more toward family-friendly fare, but it remains to be seen if Disney will add more adult-oriented options in the future.
Read more about the recent survey results here.
Redbox is Adding New Digital Signs on Kiosks to Better Promote its Free Streaming Service
Redbox is looking to leverage its network of familiar red kiosks as a way to promote its own free streaming service. The company is planning to add digital signage to spread the word about its streaming lineup — but it also opens up more advertising opportunities for other companies as well.
Check out Redbox’s plans here.
Deal Alert
Save some cash with these current and upcoming deals.
Philo is Extending Its Black Friday Sale: Get Your First Month for Just $5
Live TV streaming service Philo is extending its Black Friday discount so new subscribers can still get their first month for $5. The current offer expires on Dec. 7, so there’s still time!