Plus, AI chatbots are here to take over the workforce. Here’s my take on why it’s not such a great idea. Why spend taxpayer dollars on cable when there’s Starlink satellites already here? I also have the reason why the world still uses floppy disks, how to cool down your laptop when it overheats (pro tip: not in the freezer), the clever way to see who gets your email and surveys that can make you a ton of cash.
Free stuff you get with your cable subscription
Here at Komando HQ, we’ve written a lot of guides about cutting the cord. Here’s a five-step plan you can follow to ditch cable and start streaming. But sticking to cable has its upsides.
In fact, some cable packages include free streaming subscriptions, which means you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, it can be time-consuming to research all the cable TV perks out there.
Good news: We did the heavy lifting for you. We found some of the most significant advantages of cable, from technical benefits like better reception to fun extra features like apps and web services. Bookmark this page so you can share it with the next person who tells you to cut the cord.
1. Cheap or free Wi-Fi
If you’re looking for ways to save on your internet connection, you may qualify for low-income internet options. There are a few good resources, like the Lifeline program or the Affordable Connectivity Program. Or you can turn to your cable TV subscription.
That’s right: One way to keep more dollars in your pocket is by double-dipping with a package deal. Some companies offer internet service as well as TV and streaming services. For example, here are a few Xfinity packages you can choose from:
Many cable providers want to turn your router into a Wi-Fi hotspot for the neighborhood. This way, other customers can get internet service no matter where they are. You might not like the idea of providing other people with free internet — but it can benefit you too.
Say you’re a Comcast customer out in the wild. You’re struggling to connect to the internet. If you’re near another Comcast customer, you may be able to connect to Xfinity Wi-Fi. Learn more about this Xfinity feature here.
You and other customers are part of the same network, but you can opt out if you want.
It’s like Amazon Sidewalk, which turns your home gadgets into a part of your neighborhood’s wireless network. Tap or click here for Kim’s take on whether or not you should opt out of Amazon Sidewalk.
2. A huge video-on-demand library is another one of the best cable TV perks
Tidy your tech: Best cable organization and cord management options
Everyone seems to own laptops, smartphones, desktop computers, Internet of Things devices and so much more. It’s great to be connected, but what isn’t great is all those tangled cords.
Thankfully, there are tons of organizing tools to choose from. Whether you want to hide those cables swinging from your TV or move the wires out of your way on your computer desk, we’ve got the right organizers for you.
America's plan to ban TikTok, Ring Doorbell's nasty legal loophole & save $ on your internet bill
How to charge your iPhone much more quickly
You are in the middle of a conversation, and suddenly, your phone dies! While you can charge your phone, you might have to cancel if you plan to go anywhere. Fully charging your phone is not always a quick feat. Tap or click for a list of apps that could be causing your phone’s battery to drain.
When it might be time to switch back to cable
Cable or streaming? Both offer a variety of movies and TV shows, but you’ll always find pros and cons for each type of service. Regardless of how you watch TV, you don’t want to pay for something you’re not using.
As summer approaches and your travel plans take shape, you may want to consider pausing your service while you’re away. Why not just cancel and reactivate when you return? Well, that’s more inconvenient and could end up costing you more. Tap or click here for our report.
Tax dollars wasted on broadband services
Why waste taxpayer dollars on cable when satellite’s available? Here’s my take on why it’s time to switch, in 60 seconds.
This popular network is throwing in the towel
Who’s going to win: the three big networks or streaming and cable channels? Listen to this one-minute podcast to find out which network is sick of fighting.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Put your USB drive in the right way the first time
Plugging in a USB cable the right way sounds like a no-brainer. Then why do we get it wrong so often? Here’s how to nail it on the first try, in 60 seconds.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Free perks with your cable bill
Sick of overspending on your cable bills? Listen to this one-minute podcast for a few perks you didn’t even know you could take advantage of.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The ugly truth about cutting the cord
Remember when cutting the cable and watching free TV became a thing in 2007? Listen now to find out how this consumer revolt backfired.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Stocking stuffers and small presents worth adding to your cart
You know what you’re getting the family for their big holiday gifts, but what are you going to do about all those stocking stuffers?
While some might rely on the old fallbacks — gift cards for favorite fast-food restaurants and small trinkets — you’re ready for something a little more exciting.
5 smart digital life hacks you won’t find on TikTok
Not long before my mother passed away, she needed medical tests in another state. She asked me to carry her Covid vaccination card and said, “Be sure to put the card in a safe place where we can find it quickly.” There’s a much better way to have proof of that fragile card.
Are you buying the correct chargers and cables for your devices? Check this chart
A phone, tablet or laptop without power is a sad thing. It’s an expensive useless brick until you can juice up the battery. Don’t be ashamed if you have nightmares about being stuck with a dead battery. We’ve all been there.
Tech 101: How to use your iPhone as a mobile hotspot
If you have a laptop, you can get some work done on the go. That is if you have an internet connection. The thing is, we’re not always near a trustworthy network. Tap or click here for four ways to get internet in your RV: Antenna, Wi-Fi extender, booster and hotspot.
This charging cable records your conversations
Are hackers recording your private conversations? Listen now to see if your chargers are being used as surveillance tools.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
8 proven ways cheap people lower their monthly internet, cable, and streaming bills
The average American will pay $32,400 for internet access throughout a lifetime. This number, calculated by researchers at Reviews.org, doesn’t even include today’s big dogs. I’m talking about your cable, streaming, cellphone and other subscriptions.
Say goodbye to AT&T TV - Here's what's replacing it
Between the internet, cable, network television, satellite and streaming services, there is no shortage of ways to watch movies, television shows, special events and live content. Additionally, the pandemic has resulted in more at-home content than ever before.
Review: SideTrak Solo portable monitor
I remember long ago when having a single computer monitor for work was common. Thinking back, I’m not sure how I was ever productive in those days.
Having at least two monitors has become commonplace at the office. I actually prefer having at least three.
This gadget turns your tabletop into a phone charger - Is it worth it?
Your desk is a mess. OK, maybe not your desk specifically, but think about all the things you’ll find in the average workspace. Tap or click here to give your home office a high-tech makeover.
Start with your computer and then there’s a monitor or two (or three?) along with a keyboard and mouse. You might have a set of speakers, wireless earbuds and of course, the all-important phone charger.
Money-saving tip: Find out if you're paying too much for internet service
When you signed up for home internet service, you had to choose from several options. Each plan promises certain download and upload speeds, but how do you know which one is right for you?
Those speeds are a big factor in how much you’ll shell out for the internet each month. Faster capabilities mean higher costs and you’ll pay less for slower speeds. But speed is just one factor when it comes to your internet bill. There are others you might not know about. Tap or click here to change this one setting for faster internet speeds.