Retail Observer

right out of the gate you are ready to roll with no-cost programming! Some suggestions for your customers when installing and using a smart TV: first, update the apps you use most, and then set your TV to automatically update both firmware and installed apps within the "Settings" section of the onscreen menu. This can be critical, as both HBO Max and Disney+ released important updates within the last several months that impacted their operation on particular TV brands. Also, keep an eye on news of new programming, either through the app store of your TV or through CNET or other reputable sites, as contract negotiations are ongoing for many services. But what if you prefer not to pay for a cable or OTT subscription? Besides the Hulu's and Vudu's of the world, digital TV (DTV) antennas are also growing in popularity. Expert Warehouse is currently carrying the ANTOP antenna brand, which provides over- the-air broadcasts of local, network and government-mandated basic cable channels in up to 4K quality. These antennas generally pull in upwards of 100 or more free channels over a range of 45 to 100 miles, offering even rural customers a great way to get news, sports and popular shows — all without paying a dime besides the hardware investment, which is often below $100 retail. One advantage that cable offers over OTT and over-the-air broadcasts is DVR capabilities. While YouTubeTV includes full DVR functionality and unlimited storage on the cloud, other providers like AirTV, Amazon and Sling offer hardware alternatives, whose cost cuts into your monthly cable savings. But perhaps the biggest obstacle to cord-cutting is access to local sporting events. A DTV antenna will help with some games in the local market, but in-market and out-of-market games not carried by the five main broadcast networks will require either a sports- specific subscription (DirectTV's NFL Sunday Ticket, for example), or premium service through YouTubeTV, Hulu + Live TV, AT&T TV Now and others at a mean cost of $50 a month. All TVs carried by Expert Warehouse can handle these apps, and VPNs can help in masking locations if you are subject to local blackouts. Call Expert Warehouse today to learn more about cord-cutting and smart integration options, and how we can help establish your store as a go-to resource for this growing facet of the population. Stephen Paczkowski is a Buyer/Channel Manager at Expert Warehouse, the tech distribution arm of BrandSource parent AVB Inc. RO SUBSCRIBE TODAY! THE RETAIL AN EYE ON THE INDUSTRY SINCE 1970 Industry News • Tradeshow Events • Buying Groups • Retail Views • Trends • and more Essential resources for the independent retailer For more info: 800.393.0509 | retailobserver.com/subscribe | Print & Digital Access

• Cover