Comparing TV of Today to Yesteryear
I like my roll down windows and ashtray, thank you!
I recently purchased a new vehicle.
While I did my research and narrowed down my choices, I realized just how technologically advanced cars and trucks have become. Onboard video displays for the dashboard and ‘infotainment’ systems have replaced mechanical odometers and push button AM/FM car radios. Heck, try to find a car with a CD player, not to mention a cassette deck.
“But I LIKE roll-down windows. I JUST had them in my last truck, or the one before that…”
After thinking about it for a minute, it was in my 2010 GMC Sierra. That truck will be 16 model years old this year.
Why Can’t We Compare?
Comparing modern streaming services to traditional cable TV is much like comparing old cars with roll-down windows and ashtrays to today’s sleek, high-tech vehicles. While both serve the same fundamental purpose, transporting you from point A to point B; the way they do it, and the experience they provide, are worlds apart.
I began to think of cable TV as the equivalent of my late 70’s Ford Pinto. It got me where I needed to go. Much like traditional cable TV which has been popular since around the same time, it was basic. Viewing options gave little control over how or when I could watch my favorite show. You’re stuck with scheduled programming, limited customization and plenty of unnecessary baggage, like paying for dozens of channels you never watch. It’s functional, but clunky. You must wait for your favorite show to come on, just like you had to manually roll down the window on a hot day or clear ashtray residue from the dashboard. There’s no personalization, no seamless integration, just the basics.
Basics are No Longer…Basic.
While streaming is different from what we may be used to, today’s streaming services are like a modern car with voice-activated controls, automatic climate systems and touchscreens. You’re not just getting a ride; you’re getting a tailored experience. You decide what to watch, when and where. Want to pause halfway through an episode and pick it up on your phone during your lunch break? No problem. Want to skip the commercials entirely or binge-watch an entire season in a weekend? That’s standard. It’s on-demand and in your control, just like how today’s cars adjust the seat, mirrors and climate automatically based on who’s driving.
Where is the Value?
The differences also show up in cost and efficiency. Traditional cable has extra charges, like monthly cable set top box fees—comparable to how older cars might require frequent maintenance, and outdated safety features. Streaming services are usually more transparent and flexible—you pay monthly, you can cancel anytime, and you only subscribe to what you want, much like choosing your features in a custom vehicle build.
Time for the Switch?
Still not ready for the ‘new car smell’ of streaming and want to try before you buy? Good news, you have options. Head on over to your local supermarket or chain drug store and pick up a gift card from Hulu, NETFLIX or one of the other services. Doing this and using the gift card as payment will not lock you into the monthly payment hitting your credit or debit card. Think of it as a rental. Try a few before you take one off the lot.
OK, enough of the car analogies. While we all love the classics, the nostalgia of a familiar TV theme song and things of yesteryear, the truth is they are less practical than what we have today.
Just as we expect more from our vehicles today than just four wheels and a radio, we expect more from our media. And this is what streaming delivers.
Want to learn more? Visit the streaming marketplace on our website.
