Alaskans react to GCI ending TV service by summer 2025 [Video]

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU)—While GCI said Tuesday that only a small percentage of its customer base has TV services that will be affected by its decision to end cable TV service by mid-2025, reactions from Alaskans across the state have been mixed. Some expressed concern about the implications of this decision, while others understood that viewing habits are changing.

In a letter sent to customers, GCI — one of Alaska’s largest cable TV, internet, and phone service providers — said during the past few years, customer TV service feedback (including about Yukon TV and Choice TV) has proven customers prefer online video streaming instead of traditional multi-channel TV platforms.

The Yukon TV streaming application, which offers up to 150 channels, is delivered via a GCI internet connection.

Rural GCI TV customers, like Nome resident Simon Kinneen, said the transition should be manageable. Kinneen said he already prefers streaming.

“It’s [internet] been pretty good here in Nome, …