As streaming services become more expensive, many people are finding ways to save money, such as free app alternatives.
ST. LOUIS — Most of us pay for multiple streaming services at the same time. The average person pays for 3 streaming services per month, but 1 in 10 pays for 5 or more streaming services. Here are some ways you can save money, including using free apps instead of paid ones.
Consider streaming bundles
Streaming bundles seem to be popping up everywhere these days, as more competitors come together in response to consumer debate. Verizon has launched a streaming bundle that gives you access to five streaming services for $20 per month.
“Right now, you can get Netflix and Max for $10 a month, which is significantly less than the monthly cost of streaming them separately,” said Andy Choi, corporate communications manager at Verizon. I am. Verizon already offers a Disney bundle, which means you can get a total of five streaming services for just $20. This fall, Apple TV faced a backlash after raising its prices by $3 a month as customers complained that the content wasn’t worth the price increase. Many consumers online are frustrated because they have to use multiple streaming services at the same time to watch popular shows. on demand.
Stream movies and TV shows with Hoopla
Librarians in particular will tell you that there are many free alternatives to paid services. One of them is Hoopla.
“With the Hoopla app, you can access movies, TV shows, audiobooks, e-books, comic books, and even graphics,” said Mary Meyer, Digital Library Services Manager at the St. Louis Public Library. “You’ll find some new titles, probably not the latest releases, but you’ll find newer movies and older movies and TV shows.”
You can also rent episodes from paid online subscriptions like MasterClass.
Consider downloading Freegal Music to ditch paid apps like Spotify and Apple Music
While Spotify and Apple Music have free trials and some free listening, Freegal Music allows you to stream several hours of music a day and even download songs for free.
“With your library card, you can stream eight hours of music for free per day and download up to five songs per week for free,” Meyer said. “And when you download them, they become songs you want to keep.”
Download the Libby app and ditch apps like Audible
The Libby app lets you get free e-books and audiobooks from your library. It’s free to install, and all digital content in Libby’s Library can be borrowed for free with your library card. There are no subscription fees, in-app purchases, or late fees. Simply borrow a book through Libby and start reading. Pro tip: If you know you need a new release, search for it immediately and put it on hold. You’ll receive a notification when your book is available to read on your digital device.
Please ask a librarian for details.
Many libraries also offer free access to paid subscriptions such as the New York Times, Consumer Reports, and St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Meyer said New York Times Cooking is a popular app, especially during the holiday season. You also get free access to creative tools and learning tools like LinkedIn Learning.
St. Louis readers, take note. The St. Louis Public Library is different from the St. Louis County Library. If you live or work in St. Louis, you can receive a St. Louis Public Library card.