Local channels in streaming bundles: Why they're hard to get, and how that's changing
(PCWorld)

If your TV diet includes major broadcast networks, cutting cable can be a challenge. Live streams from ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox stations are only available in a small number of markets, so without solid reception from an antenna, potential cord cutters are stuck.But that might change in the coming months. TV networks and streaming bundlers are finally finding ways to get local stations on board with streaming bundles such as Sling TV, PlayStation Vue, and DirecTV Now. Once that happens, dropping cable will get a lot easier.The affiliate issue In the United States, the big four TV networks don´t own most of the local stations that broadcast their content. They´re not allowed to due to FCC rules aimed at maintaining competition and diversity among media companies. (The FCC has been going back and forth over the percentage of homes that a single company can reach, but that´s a whole other story.)To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here