C Spire launches vMVPD service, becomes quad-play threat

Mississippi-based wireless carrier C Spire has officially launched its virtual MVPD service, pricing a base tier of 104 broadcast and cable networks at $65 a month. 

An IP service delivered over a managed network and based on a while-label platform provided by MobiTV, C Spire TV has been in beta test mode since April. You can see the promotional page here

The live streaming service also includes a higher-end tier of 164 channels for $85 a month, as well as the availability to add premium networks HBO, Cinemax and Starz. 

RELATED: C Spire: Virtual MVPD service is ‘not OTT!’

The service includes a cloud DVR and can play on Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV and Roku streaming boxes; Android and iOS mobile devices; and personal computers powered by Chrome, Safari or Firefox. 

While the $65 skinny bundle would seem to be at a distinct disadvantage in a vMVPD market full of cheaper over-the-top competitors, the addition of C Spire TV does make its operator a quad-play threat. 

Existing wireless customers, for example, pay $155 to add 100 Mbps home internet, landline and C Spire TV’s base package. 

“Consumers get the best of both worlds with robust software platforms from the biggest names in the technology world and our cutting-edge apps and superior service,” said Ashley Phillips, general manager of C Spire Home Services, in a statement.