Kai Rivers
Spectrum is a cable TV service that traditionally required a cable box to be rented for a fee, which could be expensive for households with multiple TV sets. However, Spectrum has recently introduced the Xumo Stream Box, a small device that streams cable programming and provides access to subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps. Customers can now choose to buy or rent the Xumo Stream Box, use third-party streaming devices, or download the Spectrum TV app to stream content without the need for a cable box.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Need for a cable box | Traditional cable TV connections require a cable box. |
| Spectrum's cable box requirement | Spectrum is phasing out cable boxes and replacing them with streaming devices like the Xumo Stream Box. |
| Xumo Stream Box | A coaster-sized device that streams Spectrum's cable programming and offers access to subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps. |
| Cost of Xumo Stream Box | Customers can buy it for $60 or rent it for $5 a month, which includes technical support. |
| Streaming options | Spectrum offers a TV app that can be used on streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, Samsung TV, Xbox One, iOS, Android, and Chrome Cast |
| DVR service | Spectrum offers DVR service for $9.99 a month for up to 100 recordings stored on their servers. |
| Cable box alternatives | Customers can opt for a rent-to-own Apple TV or use a TiVo cable box by renting a cableCARD from Spectrum. |
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What You'll Learn
Spectrum is phasing out cable boxes
Spectrum is phasing out its cable TV boxes and introducing streaming players to offer a more seamless and affordable TV watching experience. The cable box has not changed much over the years, and Spectrum is replacing it with the Xumo Stream Box, a coaster-sized device that streams the company's cable programming and gives customers access to more than 250 subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps. The Xumo device can be purchased for $60 or rented for $5 a month, which is cheaper than the $10.99 monthly equipment fee for a cable box.
Spectrum customers with multiple televisions in their homes have previously been able to avoid renting more than one set-top box by using the Spectrum TV app on a streaming device attached to their extra televisions. With the introduction of the Xumo, customers are no longer required to have at least one cable box in their homes. Customers can turn in their cable boxes and save on the monthly rental fee, using the Spectrum TV app on the streaming device of their choice on all their televisions.
The Xumo connects to the TV via an HDMI cable and receives its signals wirelessly over a WiFi network, allowing customers to place their TV anywhere in their homes. Cable boxes, on the other hand, receive signals from the coaxial cable that comes out of a wall outlet, requiring the TV to be placed near these outlets. The Xumo also comes with a remote that allows users to search for content from multiple apps and services with voice commands. The remote also has a number pad that allows users to tune directly to channels in the Spectrum TV app, similar to traditional cable boxes.
While Spectrum is phasing out cable boxes, they are not doing away with them entirely. Customers can still choose to use cable boxes, especially in areas where Xumo is not available. Cable boxes may still be useful for customers who prefer traditional cable TV over streaming cable through an app.
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The Xumo Stream Box
Spectrum customers have traditionally been required to rent cable boxes for each of their televisions. However, Spectrum is now offering an alternative to cable boxes with the introduction of the Xumo Stream Box. This coaster-sized streaming device streams Spectrum's cable programming and gives customers access to a wide range of subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps, in addition to live TV and on-demand content.
One of the key benefits of the Xumo Stream Box is that it eliminates the need for multiple cable boxes, saving customers the expense of renting additional boxes for multiple televisions. Customers can now use the Spectrum TV app on the streaming device of their choice, without any additional cost. This provides a more affordable and seamless TV-watching experience, as well as the convenience of accessing all their content in one place.
Existing Spectrum customers can purchase the Xumo Stream Box at a discounted price or rent it for a monthly fee, which includes Spectrum technical support. The Xumo Stream Box is available for purchase from Spectrum stores, Spectrum.com, or by contacting Spectrum customer service. By offering the Xumo Stream Box, Spectrum is providing its customers with a modern and streamlined streaming experience, while also giving them the flexibility to choose their preferred device for accessing Spectrum's services.
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Streaming devices compatible with Spectrum
Spectrum is phasing out its cable set-top boxes and replacing them with streaming devices. This is to offer customers a more affordable and seamless TV-watching experience.
Spectrum customers can now use the Spectrum TV app on a streaming device attached to their TV. This means that customers no longer have to rent a cable box from Spectrum, saving them the monthly rental fee.
The Spectrum TV app is compatible with most smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices. This includes Apple TV, Xumo TV (also known as Xclass TV), Xumo Stream Box, Roku, Xbox One, and Google Chromecast. The app can be downloaded from Apple's App Store, Google's Play Store, or the Roku Channel Store.
Roku devices are particularly well-suited for streaming Spectrum TV. The Spectrum app can be installed on Roku devices, allowing users to stream live content, access On Demand channels, and use premium add-ons.
The Xumo Stream Box is another streaming device that is compatible with Spectrum. This coaster-sized device plugs into most smart TVs and allows instant access to live Spectrum TV and streaming apps. The Xumo Stream Box is available to purchase for $60 or rent for $5 a month.
In summary, Spectrum is moving away from cable set-top boxes and towards streaming devices. The Spectrum TV app can be used on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices such as Roku, Xumo Stream Box, and Xbox One.
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Renting vs buying a cable box
Spectrum is replacing its cable set-top boxes with the Xumo Stream Box, a small device that streams its cable programming and offers access to over 250 subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps. Customers can either buy it for $60 or rent it for $5 a month, with the rental option including technical support. This is $6 cheaper than the $10.99 monthly equipment fee for a cable box.
Spectrum is also phasing out the need for a cable box, allowing customers to use the Spectrum TV app on a streaming device of their choice. This means customers with multiple televisions in their homes can avoid renting more than one set-top box. The Spectrum TV app is free to use, but if you want to watch TV on a television set that isn't smart, you'll need a streaming device. There are a number of compatible devices, including Roku, which allows you to stream live content and access On Demand channels and premium add-ons.
Renting a cable box can be a good option if you're not ready to commit to buying one, as it offers more flexibility. It can also be a good choice if you're unsure about the technology and want the peace of mind of having technical support. However, over time, renting can become more expensive than buying, especially if you plan on keeping the cable box for a long period.
Buying a cable box can be a more cost-effective option in the long run, as you'll only need to pay a one-time fee. This can be especially beneficial for bigger households with multiple TV sets, as it can save on the additional monthly fees for each box. Additionally, owning your cable box gives you more control and flexibility over your setup, and you won't need to worry about rental agreements or returning the equipment if you cancel your service.
It's worth noting that some cable companies may not offer the option to buy a cable box, and you may be required to rent it from them. In such cases, exploring alternative options like streaming devices or other cable providers that offer purchasing options may be more suitable.
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Streaming Spectrum TV without a cable box
Spectrum is phasing out its cable set-top boxes and replacing them with the Xumo Stream Box, a small device that streams cable programming and offers access to subscription-based and ad-supported streaming apps. This means that customers will no longer have to rent cable boxes, saving them money on monthly rental fees.
Spectrum customers can now use the Spectrum TV app on a streaming device attached to their televisions, as long as they have Spectrum internet service. The Spectrum TV app can be downloaded on mobile devices, allowing customers to watch TV from anywhere with a reliable internet connection.
To stream Spectrum TV without a cable box, customers can use streaming devices such as Roku, Apple TV, or smart TVs that have the Spectrum TV app installed. Roku devices, in particular, are known to be compatible with the Spectrum app, allowing users to stream live content, access On Demand channels, and subscribe to premium add-ons.
It is worth noting that while streaming devices offer an alternative to cable boxes, Spectrum requires customers to have at least one cable box or streaming device in their home. Additionally, certain channels on the Spectrum TV app may be blocked and require a connection to Spectrum WiFi.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, if you have a basic cable plan, you need to rent a set-top box from Spectrum. However, you can opt to stream instead, which doesn't require a box.
No, there is no option to buy a set-top box from Spectrum. However, you can rent-to-own an Apple TV for the same monthly cost.
It costs $10.99 per month to rent a set-top box from Spectrum.
Yes, you can use a streaming device such as Roku, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, Xbox One, iOS, Android, or Chrome Cast to stream the Spectrum TV app without needing a set-top box.
Renting a set-top box from Spectrum provides a seamless viewing experience, especially if you have multiple TVs in your home. It also offers highly compatible cable box models that enhance your viewing experience.
