TV has changed drastically since it first became popular. In this day and age, viewers have so many more options not only in the area of what to watch but also where they watch it. Big network companies such as ABC and FOX are not the only channels and sources for TV shows anymore. Netflix and other online streaming sites have changed the structure for TV in ways that can make it difficult for broadcasters to maintain their audience.
The truth is I almost always wait for my favorite shows to air on Netflix so I can just binge watch as opposed to watching one episode a week over a long period of time. And I know of far too many other people who do the same. People are attracted to niches, that is specific genre shows, that align with viewers' interests rather than the big hits. This says a lot about how networks need to market themselves. They need to adapt and provide their content on not only live TV but also the internet as they will reach larger audiences, especially in generations to come as they gravitate more toward the phenomenon of binge watching online.
Another method of marketing networks is the use of social media, is the use of social media. Younger generations are constantly glued to their smartphones and social media apps. It’s all about adapting to the trends of this era. I personally don’t even pay for cable anymore because the internet is such a vast and limitless connection to everything I need. Of course, I still think TV is relevant but it is not thriving as well as the Internet. And that is exactly why I think TV networks need to see the internet as a tool and not a competitor, so that way they can boost their viewership and following. TV won't die if they do just that.
I also don't believe over-the-air radio is close to being obsolete. Many individuals thought that the invention of TV and video would put an end to radio, but as we can clearly see, radio lives on. I think the concept of radio still has quite a bit of time left to thrive. Although, I myself, use apps such as pandora and 8 tracks more than I use the radio, I still have not cut out this outlet entirely. Radio is free and not all the listening apps are and that helps those who do not have smartphones and therefore, cannot get the apps. A radio comes built into every car. Why wouldn't you use something you have that's free? But as more people do, the demise of radio usage will become more prevalent.
One main reason that radio remains in use is the timeliness of radio that is not provided through the apps. Radio shows are mostly live and therefore, can relay important information such as accidents on the road or urgent news to listeners. Not only that but most areas have a local radio station that fills them in on events going on in the nearby areas and sometimes, radio is my only source for that type of news. But if radio wishes to remain relevant in a technological advanced society, it needs to adapt and seek new ways of maintaining interest. I think radio stations are attempting this through hosting actual events and concerts that people can purchase tickets to attend, as well as all the giveaways they do over the air. It definitely keeps people listening.
Although I cannot predict how long radio will last, I do think it will outlast me. My generation is the start of straying away from radio, but I don't think it will be the generation that kills it.
