This article will introduce several popular streaming platforms in the US, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, HBO, Apple TV, Quibi, etc.
Netflix
Netflix was founded in 1997, initially offering movies, TV series DVD discs for rent like Redbox does now, after all, there was no concept of online video at that time, and YouTube was only launched in 2005. After continuous development, along with the popularity of high-speed Internet, smart phones, Netflix has now become the world's largest streaming platform, covering more than 190 countries.
In addition, you can now get a free month of Netflix subscription with the purchase of FATORK Pocket Monster Projector.
Pricing
There are three tiers of Netflix membership, all of which are ad-free. The only difference is the picture quality when watching, and the number of screens to watch at the same time. Basically all videos are available in HD (1080P), but the only ones that support Ultra HD (4K, 2160P) are generally Netflix Original and some movies. You can check the official Netflix help for information.
Bonus: If you're on a T-Mobile family plan, T-Mobile comes with a Netflix Basic membership, see the website for details.
Hulu
In 2007, NBC Universal and Fox partnered to create the Hulu streaming platform. So users are now able to watch U.S. shows on NBC and Fox, usually online on Hulu a day after they air on the networks. In 2019, Disney acquired a majority stake in Hulu to take full control of the platform.
Pricing
A single Hulu video platform costs $5.99/month (with ads), $11.99/month, and $49 more per month if you want to watch live TV. Two years ago on Black Friday, Hulu offered a $1.99/month (with ads) package for a year, so hopefully there will be a similar deal this year.
Bonus #1: Hulu is free for those with a Sprint cellular subscription, see the website for details.
Bonus #2: If you're a student with a student .edu email address, apply for the Spotify Premium Student package and get Spotify Premium+Hulu (with Ads)+Showtime for $4.99 a month, see the Spotify website for details.
Disney Plus
With several big IPs (rights) in its hands, Disney Plus, which only launched in 2019, has already become one of the leading streaming platforms, with more than 28.6 million registered users. The platform has more than 500 movies and 7,500 TV episodes, and continues to release episodes related to its Marvel and Star Wars franchises. Whether it's Disney, Pixar animation, or National Geographic documentaries, it caters to audiences of all ages.
Pricing
Disney+ offers only one membership at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year. Users can also choose to purchase a package for $12.99 per month that includes Disney plus + Hulu (with ads) + ESPN Plus.
ESPN+ is priced at $4.99 per month and includes live rights to popular sports games such as UFC Boxing, Tennis Open, U.S. Baseball, Hockey, Soccer, Serie A, NCAA Football, Basketball and more. Plus original episodes produced by ESPN. Professional and exclusive sports coverage.
Bonus: Verizon cellular package, new 5G Home, free one year Disney+ membership for new Fios subscribers.
Amazon Prime Video
Many people think of Prime Video as an accessory benefit of Amazon Prime membership. But as Amazon began to look to Netflix to launch its own original series, the platform became better known to the public. The platform's series have also become regulars at major award shows.
In 2015, Amazon signed up Richard Hammond, James May and Jeremy Clarkson, the original hosts of the BBC's acclaimed car show Top Gear, to create a new car show called The Grand Tour. It caused a stir in the car enthusiast community.
Price
The streaming service is free for all Amazon Prime members and $8.99 per month for non-Prime members to enjoy 4K HDR video from the platform.
Bonus: Customers with Metro by T-mobile mobile packages can get a free Amazon Prime membership, see website for details.
HBO Go/Now (Max)
HBO Now, the streaming platform launched by HBO TV, has attracted a large number of users after Game of Thrones became a hit. In May 2020, HBO will launch a new streaming platform - HBO Max, in addition to the original HBO produced movies, talk shows, but also from other streaming platforms to buy back the classic American drama "Friends" (Friends), "The Big Bang Theory" (The Big Bang Theory) and so on. I believe there will be more exclusive original series. After all, "if it's from HBO, it's from HBO"!
UPDATE: On April 21, 2020, HBO announced the launch date of HBO Max on May 27 for $14.99 per month. HBO Max is free for eligible AT&T Home Network, TV, and cellular subscriptions, see website for details.
Apple TV+
The service was launched in 2019 as a result of Apple's entry into the streaming media platform. The launch then also featured a number of big Hollywood names and directors on stage for it. The TV+ platform will feature Apple-produced original series. Because Apple itself has an iTunes Store, which provides users with a service to rent and purchase movies and TV series, only original series and documentaries will be available on Apple TV+.
Pricing
4.99 per month, no ads, 4K HDR quality, far less than Netflix, Hulu and other competitors. Students in the US can get TV+ for free with a $4.99/month subscription to Apple Music. A company with a conscience! With enough cash, Apple is trying to steal users' time in the competitive streaming market with a low-price strategy.
All purchasers of new Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Macbook, and TV, will receive 1 year of free TV+ within 3 months of device activation. Just like when Apple Music was launched, it offers users a free 3-month trial.
Quibi
A new streaming short-form video platform launched in April 2020. Available only on smartphones, it has received more than 1.7 million downloads in the first week of its launch (the exact number of users has not been officially announced). The main focus is on short videos, with each episode lasting 5-10 minutes. On its debut day, more than 40 series and reality shows were launched, as well as short video news programs produced daily by NBC and BBC. Videos automatically adapt to landscape and portrait screens.
Price
Compared to other streaming platforms that offer 7 days of free access, Quibi has 90 days of free access for new subscribers, which is quite conscientious.
Bonus: T-Mobile Family Plan subscribers get a free one-year Quibi membership. After one year, users can choose to use Netflix or Quibi for free. If the merger between T-Mobile and Sprint is completed, it could be Netflix, Quibi and Hulu.
