T-Mobile is making a big splash in the wireless industry, but it seems like that’s just the beginning. On this episode of Geared Up, we dive into the details of the company’s new streaming TV plans, including how it plans to disrupt some of the biggest cable companies in the U.S.
GeekWire editor and Geared Up co-host Todd Bishop said the key is next-generation 5G wireless service, which promises to give T-Mobile a new way to provide robust broadband connectivity to homes for the planned TV offering. T-Mobile has reached a deal to acquire Layer3 TV to provide the backbone for the new TV service, slated to make its debut in 2018.
Also on this episode: We go hands-on with the tiny Muse, an in-car device that brings Amazon’s Alexa smart assistant on the road. The Muse was developed by Speak Music, a startup based in San Francisco, and allows hands-free Alexa controls in the car through a Bluetooth connection to any smartphone.
Todd tried it out for a week and was pleased with the results, especially after a lackluster experience with the Alexa-enabled Garmin Speak. The Muse is shipping to its Indiegogo backers soon but isn’t available for wider consumers yet.
This week also saw the release of the Echo Spot, Amazon’s bedside Echo device that comes with a small touchscreen. As Todd put it, the reviews are in and, “for the most part, people seem to like it.”
The device was praised for its design and how easy it is to use. On the other hand, it isn’t a great device for watching video, especially compared to the larger Echo Show — and at just $20 less than the show, the Spot seems to be struggling to find its niche.
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