Switch from cable to streaming in Canada

Switching from cable to streaming starts well before you unplug a receiver. The real question is whether the new setup meets everyone’s viewing needs. Here is how to prepare the change, while keeping the services you still need. Start with the programmes. Ask each person what they want to watch, live or later. Check the specific programmes, languages and subtitles in the plan you are considering. For a sporting event, confirm availability in Canada and in your region. A channel list is not enough. Next, try the service on the television you will actually use, at your usual viewing times. Let each person open the application, find a programme and adjust the subtitles. Test the simultaneous viewing you need, within the plan’s limits. Record what works and what remains untested. A phone demonstration does not validate the living-room television. Then compare costs over the same period, with taxes and currency identified. Include subscriptions, separate player licences, necessary equipment and any overlap between services. If you remove television from a bundle, ask for the new Internet price. Simply subtracting the television line from your bill can give you the wrong answer. Choose the date once essential needs, everyday use and the budget are checked. Also review any recordings you want to keep: do not assume they can be transferred. When cancelling, specify the television service to end, the requested date, and any Internet or phone service to keep. The CRTC says you do not need to give thirty days’ notice. Contractual cancellation fees may still apply. Ask for written confirmation. Installing an application does not cancel your cable subscription. Before returning equipment, separate your own devices from the provider’s. Ask the provider to confirm which equipment to keep for Internet and which to return. Follow the return instructions. Check the final bill and keep your return receipts until it is settled. Also review your upcoming renewals. Switch, wait or keep your current offering: all three are possible decisions. Start with one essential need that remains unconfirmed. The OfficialOTT guide takes you through the process, step by step.

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