You won’t need an X-Box or Playstation console to access Hulu on your television. The streaming service will now be available to subscribers through their cable box as its own channel. However, there’s a catch. It looks like this service is only available to New Yorkers at the moment.
According to Variety, New York cable operator Cablevision Systems is providing access to the internet-based service via pay TV. Working Hulu into Optimum TV, subscribers can now stream shows and movies through the interactive program guide that is common with most cable boxes. It has now joined the ranks of HBO and Showtime as a premium channel.
"As Hulu’s first cable distribution partner, Optimum is pleased to also be the first provider to offer the unique ability to access Hulu directly from the program guide," Cablevision’s EVP of programming Tom Montemagno said.
Starting at $7.99 per month, the company is doing its best to undercut the streaming giant that is Netflix. Much like its competitor, Hulu has beefed up its library with original programming in addition to content provided by other networks and studios.
Last May, the service inked a deal with Suddenlink Communications to be included on TiVo boxes. While that feature is still in the works, it’s likely this is only the beginning. Expect to see Hulu on more televisions in the future.
