Cancel your weekend plans: Showtime's standalone streaming service has launched.
Showtime isn't the only channel of its kind that allows you access to programs independent of a cable subscription. A similar online-only service from HBO, called HBO Now, launched in April. But Showtime is the first premium cable network to offer a subscription with TV-streaming site Hulu and with more devices than just Apple at launch. In addition to Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad and Apple TV, it's also available on Roku streaming players and Sony's PlayStation Vue cloud-based TV service.
This move is the latest in a trend of television networks offering programming to consumers without a cable TV contract.
Showtime is currently offering a 30-day free trial of its service, which allows users to watch shows and movies as they air, as well as view a deep catalog of content on demand. Afterward, the monthly cost is $10.99. That's cheaper than HBO Now's $14.99 per month.
It's cheaper still with a Hulu subscription. Paid Hulu subscribers can pay an additional $8.99 per month for access to Showtime. (Showtime is owned by CBS, parent company of CNET.)
Comedy Central's app has also launched on Roku. Some of the content will require a paid-TV credentials log-in, according to Variety. However, some shows and standup specials will be available to watch for free.