Verizon Wireless rolled out a new feature on its FiOS mobile app that allows users to access nearly all of their DVR recordings from anywhere they have an Internet connection, reported Wireless Week. The updated mobile app also allows customers to stream live TV channels on a mobile device, though that feature is currently limited to home viewing.
According to a recent study by GfK, TV Everywhere usage increased with 53 percent of pay-TV subscribers using TV Everywhere services, up from 43 percent in 2012, reported CED Magazine. The study further reveals that mobile devices were the main drivers of this growth, with monthly use of mobile apps and web sites from TV providers doubling since 2012.
Advanced Television reported that Bell, Canada’s largest television provider, and Netflix have struck a deal to allow subscribers of Bell Fibe TV and Bell Aliant FibreOP TV to access Netflix through their existing set-tops. All Fibe TV receivers are automatically updated to enable quick access without the need for users to buy new equipment.
Finally, research from Parks Associates found that 14 percent of U.S. broadband households is planning to buy a streaming media player by mid-2016, while 31 percent of households already own a streaming media player, reported Digital TV Europe. With competitive pricing and rapid expansion of new OTT services, analysts at Parks Associate say that streaming media players will be a popular gift this Christmas.