We’re just days away from the launch of the much anticipated stand-alone streaming service from Showtime. It will compete head to head with HBO NOW which as we reported yesterday is considering discounting the price for their service. We didn’t expect the pricing wars to stop there but little did we know Showtime was teaming up with Hulu to offer a bundled offering along with a discount. Starting in July, 2015 you will be able sign up for Hulu with Showtime for just $16.98 a month. Members will save $2 off the normal $18.98 price by subscribing to both steaming services in a bundle rather than separately.
Hulu presents a breakdown of the price for both services in the bundle on their Hulu with Showtime page. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing along with the retail price for each service is purchased separately:
- Showtime – $8.99 a month vs. $10.99 a month separately
- Hulu – $7.99 a month which is the normal retail price
As you can see the bundle will save you $2 off the new Showtime streaming service. Interestingly Hulu has decided not to discount their service. I assume that means Showtime is offering the discount and using Hulu as a sales channel. Much like HBO NOW used Sling TV as a sales channel. We would expect the $16.98 Hulu / Showtime bundle to draw some attention, especially from those who are interested in both services. My only complaint with Hulu is the commercials. Perhaps Netflix has spoiled me but I don’t want to pay for a premium streaming service and still be forced to watch commercials.
Showtime fans should get ready because the launch of their new streaming service is just around the corner. You will be able to watch your favorite Showtime original shows from your PC, Mac, iOS device, or Apple TV. Showtime also announced that Roku and Playstation game consoles will be supported at launch. Watch Ray Donovan, Homeland, Penny Dreadful, House of Lies, Homeland, and all your Showtime favorites through the service. You can also watch live sports through the new stand-alone Showtime streaming service.
Follow us @SmartDNSFan for the latest streaming news and updates. If you plan to travel or currently live outside of the United States you can use a Smart DNS service to enjoy channels like Hulu and Showtime from anywhere in the world.
