Good news for Apple users. NBCUniversal Media announced that Super Bowl XLIX could now be streamed on iPad and MacBook for free without the need for a cable subscription, reports MacRumors.
With "Super Stream Sunday," U.S.-based users will get to watch 11 continuous hours of NBC content through its website, NBCSports.com, or through the mobile application NBC Sports Live Extra.
The new promotion, which will be made available for streaming on February 1, will include Super Bowl XLIX, the Super Bowl XLIX halftime show featuring pop star Katy Perry, and the pre- and post-game shows. As a bonus, an episode of "The Blacklist" will also be available for viewing.
The stream will start at noon with pregame coverage and end after the showing of "The Blacklist."
For the Super Stream Sunday period, no logins will be required to access the content through NBC.com or the NBC Sports Live Extra mobile app. Typically, a cable subscription is needed for users to avail themselves of the services. NBC is making its content free of charge in a bit to make people aware of its TV Everywhere offerings, which offer television content on a range of devices with a cable subscription.
The mobile application requires a 3G, 4G or WiFi data connection, and watching video over a 3G or 4G connection may affect wireless data plan. For iPads with Retina display, users can experience HD quality video at up to 1080p.
Unfortunately, the streaming display is not available to iPhone due to an exclusive deal the NFL has with Verizon Wireless.
As a matter of fact, Verizon Wireless and NBC is working together to introduce a Super Bowl Studium app that will feature an "exclusive in-stadium video content." It will also include commercials and replays shown from four camera angles.
According to Sports Illustrated, NBC streamed the Super Bowl three years ago. However, this will be the first time where streaming will also include the halftime show and the day's lead-off coverage.
In a post by iTunes Preview, users of the mobile app NBC Sports Live Extra can now watch thousands of live sporting events f that air on NBC, NBCSN and Golf Channel LIVE free of charge.
However, the vast majority of live streaming content on NBC Sports Live Extra will only be available to authenticated cable, satellite and telco customers via TV Everywhere.
Users outside of the U.S. and Mexico can still access the Super Bowl through the NFL's Game Rewind service.
