Google published a blog post about this on Tuesday, stating that traditional TV is “expensive and outdated”. So it is making the switch to streaming instead. It’s a little surprising that Google did not include a free month of YouTube TV with the Chromecast with Google TV. But offering the Chromecast means that customers can try out YouTube TV, Fubo TV, Hulu + Live TV and a few other options that are out there too. Along with the Chromecast, Google is also providing free Google WiFi to replace their old router and Fiber TV box.
Google is touting how much cheaper streaming services are
To justify this change, Google is showing how much cheaper streaming services are, compared to Fiber TV. Currently, Fiber TV costs $105 per month, which is actually quite expensive, even for cable. But it also shows that live streaming services start at just $25 per month. With more robust options starting at $65. That includes services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV. While Sling TV and Philo are cheaper. And there’s no equipment necessary either. Google Fiber’s director of Product Strategy, Liz Hsu has stated that this transition is already underway. Those that are in Nashville, Huntsville, Salt Lake City and Provo have already been upgraded. While those in Raleigh-Durham, Charlotte and Irvine will be transitioning in September. Finally Austin and Atlanta will transition in November, while those in Kansas City don’t have a transition date yet. Google also notes that Fiber TV customers will receive a 90-day notice before the switch actually happens.
