It has developed a reputation across four decades as a leading source of weather news and information. Now, viewers of The Weather Channel television network, today apart of the Byron Allen-owned Weather Group, have access to an “upgraded” connected TV app.
The app includes a subscription-based live stream of the channel — a major development for the MVPD-distributed offering.
By going with a SVOD platform, The Weather Channel debuts its own direct-to-consumer subscription, a move Weather Group says “significantly” expands access to the channel.
In a cord-cutting world, it is certainly an intriguing move — one that may increase calls for an a la carte opportunity among cable TV customers.
The Weather Channel’s live stream is roughly $36 per year, before taxes, with monthly billing of $2.99. It includes access to an on-demand library of original programming an interactive features including local forecasts and radar looks.
A 7-day free trial for new app subscribers is being offered.
What of those who have a cable TV service? Viewers who have access to The Weather Channel via their cable and satellite provider can receive the same upgrades by authenticating their accounts using their provider credentials.
Byron Allen said, “This is a huge step for The Weather Channel television network, as we expand access to our best-in-class weather news and entertainment content. Our upgraded app allows subscribers to tailor their TV viewing experience to their location and needs. As many regions in the country prepare for the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, it was very important to launch this new app experience to ensure that our life-saving weather information is available to everyone, 24/7.”
The Weather Channel CTV app is currently available on Amazon Fire TV and Android TV and will be coming soon to Roku, Samsung Smart TV, Vizio, and Xfinity Flex.