The Pros and Cons of online streaming of television shows and movies

Hulu Plus is an extension of a free online service that allows users to stream television shows and movies. At $7.99 a month, one can view a wider variety of shows and movies than on the free service. Most of the television shows and movies can be viewed in High Definition on a variety of devices (including Ipad, laptop computers, Apple TV, and various game consoles). High speed internet service is required for optimum streaming. 1/2

No live streaming option – one cannot watch live television. Variety is good, but not great – there are several networks that do not allow their content to be streamed on Hulu Plus (most notably CBS). Even with high speed internet, there are frequent delays – the show/movie will stop and start a few times during prolonged viewing. 2/2

One can watch live television on Hulu Plus. TrueFalseTrueFalse

The answer is FALSE. You cannot watch live television on Hulu Plus. This is a major drawback that prevents many cable and satellite customers from cancelling their service.

The correct answer is FALSE: Hulu Plus does not offer live streaming of television shows. Please review.Please review

CostsBenefits Live television cannot be streamed Many of the most popular television series are not available on Hulu Plus High speed internet is expensive and essential to viewing Hulu Plus Service can be spotty depending on internet connection Cancelling cable and satellite service will equate to a large monthly savings Hulu Plus can be streamed on many devices Several original shows including Larry King Now are available with many more in the pipeline There are less commercials and advertisements on Hulu Plus 1/2

A one month FREE trial is available Hulu Plus has consistently been rated user- friendly because of the ease of use and picture quality It has 720p resolution Hulu Plus has more television content than movie content This includes current seasons of many popular television shows 2/2

Hulu Plus is considerably cheaper than cable or satellite subscription plans. TrueTrue FalseFalse

The answer is TRUE: Hulu Plus is $7.99 for unlimited monthly service and there is no contract that has to be signed. The average cable/satellite subscription service is $ per month with a contract agreement.

The correct answer is TRUE: Hulu Plus is significantly less expensive than cable and satellite subscription plans. Please review.

In this lesson you learned about on alternative to cable and satellite services. Hulu Plus and other streaming television and movie options are growing in popularity because they are affordable, work well, and are user-friendly. However, several drawbacks remain with these new streaming services. Completing this lesson has made you a more informed consumer.