Callabyte TV service ending February 2025
Clinton R. Smith, Assistant Manager, Callaway Electric Cooperative
Background of Callabyte TV
Callabyte started with an effort to offer advanced communication services to un- and under-served communities of central Missouri. The means chosen for delivering those services was fiber optic cable. Fiber technology provides many capabilities that reach well into the future with possibilities that are almost endless.
Callabyte’s main focus was to reach subscribers with high speed, reliable internet. Fiber technology allowed us to also offer added services of phone and TV. It has worked well for many subscribers who like having all services from one provider. We have also found that many subscribers still love traditional live TV. They are comfortable with a traditional remote, following a schedule of shows on a specific time and date. We continued the added service of TV for as long as it was possible and affordable.
TV market increasingly difficult for small independent TV providers
However, as our TV subscribers know, rates for this service have continued to increase, while internet pricing has remained virtually unchanged. Over time it has become increasingly difficult for small independent providers to compete in the video environment. Retaining access to quality channels at an affordable price seems no longer possible. As a result, our video provider, Co-Mo Connect, has elected to no longer offer TV service. Without the content provided by Co-Mo Connect, and finding no other viable option, Callabyte will be ending our TV service effective February 2025.
What does this mean for current TV subscribers?
First and foremost, Callabyte will continue to offer internet and phone service with no changes. In addition, the end of TV service will not be effective immediately. You will have time to transition from Callabyte TV. Please be aware that we have tools available to support you in this process. Our callabyte.com website has a full section devoted to streaming TV options that walks you through the process of reviewing streaming options, having the right tools to stream, and signing up for service.
DirecTV and Dish continue to be the key players in live TV service. YouTube TV and Hulu are gaining popularity along with several other streaming options. The great news is, with the speed and reliability provided with your Callabyte internet service, you already have the most important tool needed to get started. Most all video options are moving toward delivery through a high speed, quality internet connection.
Recommendation for subscribers wanting a product most similar to Callabyte TV service
For our current TV subscribers wanting to continue with a traditional live TV product, we would recommend that you visit with DirectTV and request service through their Gemini device. It is the most similar to the TV service Callabyte offers today. For Callabyte TV only subscribers, both DirecTV and Dish continue to offer satellite television service.
Tool for subscribers wanting to explore all TV & streaming options
For current subscribers who want to explore all options of live TV and other streaming platforms, we invite you to visit the StreamNow section of our Callabyte website. Here you will find a wealth of information about alternative options to Callabyte TV.
Our MSR Team will be available to help answer questions during the transition from Callabyte TV service. We appreciate your business and continued support of Callabyte.