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Issue 45: September 30, 2019

With Sling TV's loss of FOX and FOX Sports channels, the service's future is looking grim. What are Sling TV's next steps? We propose a few down below. Want to know how FOX has responded? Check the link in the industry news section below. And if you want to know what's coming to Netflix and Hulu in October, we've got you covered as well.Read on to find out more in this week's Stream Report.

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Cord-Cutting Tip of the Week:

Before You Buy a Smart TV, Read This

Earlier this year, Sling TV's FOX Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) went completely dark due to contract disagreements between Dish Network (which owns Sling TV) and Sinclair (which owns FOX RSNs). To make matters worse, Sling TV is now in a major disagreement broadcast companies for both FOX Sports and local FOX affiliates. As a result, all of FOX channels are now dark on Sling TV.

Assuming Sling TV refuses to raises prices on its customers to get these channels back, where does Sling TV go without FOX? Here are a few suggestions.

1. Sling TV Changes Its Model

Sling TV has held back on price increases for some time. Even as newer services in the market, like YouTube TV and Hulu With Live TV, raised prices in the past 2 years, Sling TV has maintained its price structure for a much longer period of time. Its $25 per month bundle is as cheap as it gets for those looking to get sports and minimal number of local broadcast networks.

However, it appears that that model is unsustainable as broadcast networks continue to ask for more money to carry their channels. It's a supply and demand issue for Sling, so the company may need to change its model. That may mean dropping its locals altogether, offering different channel packages that do come with that price increase, or shifting gears and

becoming more like Philo

(no sports, all entertainment).

2. Sling TV Increases Prices

Sling TV may eventually cave to the demands of content producers and raise prices. That could also spell trouble for the company. Its current selling point is its lower-cost option. A price increase would make it less competitive and could push current and potential users to other services.

3. Sling TV Closes

Perhaps not the likeliest option, but if Sling TV fails to regain its FOX affiliates and also refuses to change its model, it may lose customers and close. FOX channels are an anchor for the service. Their loss will hurt. If nothing changes at Sling TV, the company may have to close up shop.

This Week's Streaming Guide

1. Here's Everything Coming to Netflix in October

A

Breaking Bad

movie? Don't miss it! Here's everything coming to Netflix in October. -

EW

2. Here's Everything Coming to Prime in October

Man in the High Castle

Season 3? Yes, please! Here's everything coming to Amazon Prime Video in October. -

Amazon

News and Industry Developments

1. FOX Blames Dish/Sling in Sling TV Channel Blackout

As you might expect, FOX is blaming Sling TV on the current channel blackout. According to FOX, Dish Network is using the blackout as a negotiation tactic for its "outrageous demands". -

FOX 13

2. Survey Finds YouTube TV, Hulu, and Philo Most Popular

Are you getting your live TV streaming from YouTube TV, Hulu With Live TV, or Philo? A new survey founds those three are the most popular cord-cutting services on the market for live TV.. -

Cord Cutters News