TORONTO – Shomi is ready to show the country what it’s all about.
The streaming video platform from Rogers Communications (TSX:RCI.B) and Shaw Communications (TSX:SJR.B) is now available to all Canadians through their Internet provider, regardless of which TV service they use.
Previously, Shomi was only available to Rogers and Shaw cable TV and Internet customers.
New members get a one-month free trial.
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After that, it will cost $8.99 a month — the same price as Netflix, which has been the dominant subscription video service in Canada since it launched here in 2010.
CraveTV, a rival streaming service from Bell Media, is slated to open up to all Canadians on Jan. 1.
It’s currently only offered to subscribers of certain television providers, including Bell, Eastlink and Telus.
For $4 per month, subscribers get access to the entire off-air library of HBO programming, plus other series including “Seinfeld,” “South Park,” “Orphan Black” and many Showtime properties.
Shomi exclusives include buzzy hits “Fresh off the Boat,” “Empire,” “Transparent,” and “Jane the Virgin.”
Shomi can be streamed on tablets, phones, computers and televisions via Xbox 360, Apple TV and Chromecast. Rogers and Shaw TV subscribers can also access content through their set-top boxes.
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–Rogers is the parent company to MoneySense.–