Sling TV, a well-known streaming platform offers many options for cord cutters looking to view their favorite shows, sports and movies in real time. It's notable for it's multiple options for plans and features along with it's unlimited cloud DVR access option.
Sling TV: The Streaming Platform
Sling TV provides a selection of packages which allow users to pick and choose different elements of content. They have also adjusted to needs for recording content to view at later dates. They pride themselves in being a cheaper alternative while adding to viewer needs.
Unlimited Cloud DVR Feature
Sling TV upgraded their cloud DVR to be "Unlimited" with this all viewers now can record a large amount of content for later use. These recordings stay saved in the cloud for up to 9 months and have access via devices with the app and it gives another benefit for those who decide to make the purchase. This benefit has come from trying to compete with other platforms like Youtube TV and gives viewers added freedom with storing what they would like to watch at a later time.
Understanding Sling TV's DVR Options
The variety in storage is for all subscribers even those who opt out of the "unlimited" option with varying time lines in their DVR retention. There are multiple choices with different limitations to be explored for a viewer.
Free DVR Options
Those who use "Freestream" a free service option with sling have a benefit of 10 hour free cloud storage with 30 day storage for content. Sling TV also has a free option that has 50 hours of free storage that last for 9 months called "DVR Free." These allow viewers to see all different forms of recording options for the platform.
Upgrade to Unlimited DVR
Those who opt for unlimited DVR will find it a monthly add on cost of $5. When subscribed users can use a new feature called “Auto-Record”. It automatically records popular sports, shows, and movies after accepting the added feature via their settings. The DVR is all through the cloud, meaning you do not need to use your own storage device. There also is an option to fast forward for ads during the playback which is one of its many features.
How to Upgrade
Sling Tv's user interface allows upgrades within your account after logging into Sling's website. Once logged in select the option to edit the subscription and navigate to DVR then you will find the Unlimited DVR selection. This then has you review changes and activate the plan through their purchase method.
Pricing and Competition
Sling TV had a price increase recently that raised both it’s basic plans for Sling Blue and Orange up to $45.99 a month. Combined package now costs around $61 which put its cost slightly below other competitors. They have made changes to try to compete in areas they are lacking such as having DVR accessibility.
Value in Comparison
Although they have added price they still make their case by giving viewers an ability to change things according to the budget without sacrificing too much with different service options. As the competition continues to rise in price, Sling TV will want to set it’s brand apart as one with flexible options for its customer base while also improving services for that set price.
Industry Perspective and Market Changes
In the competitive virtual live streaming market Sling made its changes to keep them a top contender by understanding consumer desires for unlimited DVR and using their affordable price to their benefit while addressing areas of opportunity. The streaming marketplace continues to have shifts that could create further need for change from many areas of that market.
Other Streaming Options
With prices increasing from most places the consumers are seeking to find platforms with best value while offering the most with those options. Options such as Fubo, Youtube TV and others will find ways to stay relevant, yet it is all up in the air with streaming services at this time for long term goals. With the increase to live sports and combining packages there is no easy solution for long term success.
Key Takeaways
- Sling TV now offers an upgraded “Unlimited DVR” for an additional $5 a month with cloud storage for up to 9 months.
- They have kept various types of storage methods offering other levels such as free DVR and also “Freestream” for no cost.
- Their main goal is to compete with various similar platforms in order to obtain customers who may need flexibility for affordability with streaming services.
- The ability to customize packages along with the added benefit of recording flexibility may serve to attract certain segments.
- There are multiple factors that all streaming services must acknowledge and adjust in order to obtain market share in today’s economy of streaming tv.