One of the big news stories of this week was the announcement and introduction of AT&T’s mobile-oriented TV-consumption solution, DIRECTV NOW. This is a service which is purpose-designed with mobile in mind and allows you access to over 60 channels via the app for as little as $35 per month and most importantly, on a no-basis contract. While this is a compelling option for those looking to cut the cord, it is not the only option. So here are ten of the best movie and TV streaming apps (or cord-cutting apps) currently available for Android device owners.
Netflix
Of course, Netflix needs no introduction. However, it is also one which simply must be on the list. This is quite likely the most subscribed to streaming service and for good reason. For a small fee (typically under $10 per month), you can gain access to a wealth of movies and TV shows. While those movies and TV shows might not exactly be the newest of content, there is a very good selection on offer here for the money and the app is one of the most polished Android apps you will find.
HBO NOW
If you are a fan of HBO content like Game of Thrones, The Wire, or Veep, then this is likely to be an app you will want to check out. While you do not need a cable subscription for HBO NOW, this app will require you to pay $14.99 per month for full access. However, in return for that cancel-anytime fee, you can expect to be able to watch every episode of every season of your favorite HBO shows. Although it is also worth knowing that this one does come with a free one-month trial, so you can try before you buy.
Amazon Instant Video
Amazon Instant Video is a bit of a mixed bag for those looking to cut the cord. On the one hand, this app will provide you with access to a number of movies and TV shows that you can rent or buy and then watch online. However, if you also happen to be one of the many consumers in the US who have an Amazon Prime membership, then you will be able to access a substantial amount of content at no additional cost. Including all of the ‘Amazon Original’ content, like ‘The Grand Tour’ and ‘Goliath’.
Download Amazon Instant VideoSling TV
Sling TV is one of the services which has largely empowered the cord-cutting market as this one has been available for quite some time now and unlike many of the other options, provides the user with direct access to certain live TV channels. However, you do have to pay for the service with fees typically starting from $20 per month. That said, this is a no-contract commitment and there is a 7-day free trial to wet your appetite.
STARZ
STARZ is another option that you might want to consider. This app again allows access to a number of shows and movies including the likes of Power, Ash Vs. Evil Dead, The Missing, and more. Once subscribed, you are free to stream the content online and can even download content to watch at a later time and when offline. Which makes this a nice app to try out. In terms of the price, the monthly cost for access to the STARZ app is currently $8.99 per month. Although, like most of the others, this one also comes with a free trial period which is limited to only seven days.
Hulu
Like Netflix, Hulu is a staple of the streaming world and many cord-cutters will likely already be subscribers to Hulu. If you are new to the service however, this might be one that you want to try out. In fact, unlike Netflix, Hulu does gain access to some content very early, which is one of the service’s best-selling features. That is, in addition to its own Hulu Original content as well. Hulu also offers the freedom to choose the subscription model which best suits your needs and budget, so you can go all-out with an ad-free subscription, or have the monthly cost reduced by agreeing to to an ad-included payment plan.
PlayStation Vue
For those looking for another option to consume live TV, then PlayStation Vue is always worth checking out. Although, this one is not really one of the most affordable options. Base plans start at $29.99 and only go north. However, you do get access to a wide range of prime time channels including AMC, Disney, ESPN, HBO, NFL, SHOWTIME and more. So it is hard to argue against the value that is on offer here. Especially as you gain access to cable-content and without any long-term contracts or otherwise. Once again a free trial is available, although it is one of the seven-day trials.
VUDU
VUDU is one of the few apps on this list which does not require you to hand over a monthly set amount. Instead, this is an app which is more of a rental and buy app with access to more than 100,000 movies & TV shows to choose from. However, more recently VUDU has introduced their ‘Movies On Us’ feature which also allows you to watch a number of included-titles for nothing. Which is not bad and certainly something that only adds to the value of the VUDU app. Those free movies are essentially ad-supported content, but the other added benefit of VUDU is that you can link your UltraViolet and Disney Movies Anywhere accounts for instant access to your already-owned content.
YouTube
Of course, then there is YouTube. This is another staple of the streaming world and one which actually offers the best of all worlds. You can simply just stream content with no hassle and for free. Alternatively, you can rent newer content through YouTube. Likewise, you can always subscribe to YouTube Red for $9.99 per month and gain an ad-free viewing experience, as well as access to YouTube Red-only shows and movies.
DIRECTV NOW
And then there is the new player in town. If you do want to go all-in and without having to sign up for a contract, then the newly-launched DIRECTV NOW service might actually be the one for you. As already mentioned, this one does look to provide you with a wealth of access to live TV content, as well as a number of On Demand titles. As with a number of apps, DIRECTV NOW is cross-device and platform compatible, so as well as watching on your Android smartphone or tablet, you can also continue tuning in on a number of other devices. However, with plans starting from $35 per month, like PlayStation Vue, this is one of the more expensive options. Although probably not as expensive as your cable bill.