Streaming video is any video content delivered over the internet. It can be TV programs, movies, short video clips, previews, etc. Some streaming services air live programming and some do not. Streaming also allows you to enjoy full seasons of some shows.

Yes, streaming devices and Smart TVs use the internet to play your movies and TV shows. Internet from Surry Communication/Piedmont Communications gives the best possible streaming experience with no buffering or lag time.  

To make sure you are on the perfect plan, contact customer service at 336-374-5021 or 336-787-5433

Our 500 Mbps internet speed will support streaming. However, we recommend our Gigabit speeds since the faster your internet speed, the better your streaming experience will be.

Depending on what services you pick, streaming may save you money compared to traditional cable TV.

The content you receive will depend on the streaming service you choose. Some streaming platforms offer local news, weather, and sports, and some do not.

No, that will be replaced by your customer owned streaming device or Smart TV.

Depending on the streaming platform, you may or may not be able to record shows. However, many streaming platforms allow you to access previously aired programming on demand, which makes recording shows unnecessary.

This process will be very similar to purchasing items online. You will need your contact information, including your email address, and a debit or credit card.

No, you can set up your streaming account on any device connected to the internet, such as a computer, laptop, tablet, or even your smartphone.

A streaming device is a piece of equipment that takes the streaming content from the internet and plays it on your regular TV. Some of the popular streaming devices are Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Roku, and each device includes its own remote control. All streaming devices require an HDMI port on the TV for a connection. If your TV is a smart TV, you won’t need a device because the streaming functionality is built into the TV.

Manufacturers will typically indicate “smart” or “internet-enabled TV” in their branding on the TV’s packaging. You can also check the TV’s menu and settings for any options related to connecting to the internet.

No, a Smart TV connects to the Internet to get a signal for your movies and TV shows. A streaming device, such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Apple TV works similarly and can make a regular TV work as a Smart TV for under $50.

When you want to watch shows on your streaming device, you have to subscribe to the streaming service (either the channel or the streaming service such as Netflix), then download the app to your device, open it and sign in, and then select the show you want to watch.

The devices themselves are a one-time cost. However, you may need to pay for subscriptions to the streaming services in which you subscribe to.

If you only watch one TV at a time, you can move your streaming device from one TV to another, but if you have TVs in use in two rooms at the same time, then you will need a device for each one.

If your older TV has an HDMI port, then yes, you can use a streaming device with it. If there is not an HDMI port, then you cannot.

Over the past decade, video services have changed dramatically. Originally, rural communication providers like Surry Communications and Piedmont Communications offered a “triple play” package of telephone, internet, and video to compete with national carriers. However, several factors have made traditional video services increasingly unsustainable:

1. The Shift to Streaming – Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTubeTV, and network-owned platforms (Peacock, Paramount+, etc.) offer on-demand and live video, leading many customers to “cut the cord.”
2. Consumer Habits Change– Viewers now watch content across multiple devices (TVs, computers, tablets, and phones) rather than through traditional cable or landline-based networks.
3. Growth of Free Streaming Options – Platforms like PlutoTV and others provide free streaming content, reducing the need for paid cable services.

Due to these shifts, Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications is focusing on expanding its fiber-based network to provide the best internet experience for all customers—ensuring reliable, high-speed connectivity for streaming video and other online services.

• High-Speed Internet
• Voice (Home & Business Phone)
• Security (Home & Business Security & Surveillance Cameras)
• Other Communication Services

We are committed to providing new and innovative products and services to better serve our customers. 

Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications has planned for all traditional video service to be removed by December 31, 2026

Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications will discontinue traditional video services in a phased approach, targeting small service areas based on CATV nodes and IPTV wire centers. This process will follow a pre-planned schedule to ensure a smooth transition.

Customers will be notified at least two months in advance before their traditional video service is discontinued, allowing ample time to explore alternative viewing options.

Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications will notify affected customers through multiple communication channels, including:

• Telephone calls
• Direct mailers

These notifications will provide advance notice, ensuring customers have time to prepare for the transition.

Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications will notify customers at least two months in advance before their traditional video services are discontinued. This ensures customers have sufficient time to explore alternative service options.

Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications will host streaming video education events in Davidson, Surry, and Stokes Counties.

The dates, times, and locations will be announced through:

• Social media (Facebook, website)
• Retail location
• Bill Ad/Newsletter

These events will help customers understand their streaming options and make a smooth transition.

Customers can receive assistance in choosing the best streaming video option for their viewing needs by:

• Calling our Customer Service Representatives at 336-374-5021 or 336-787-5543 for personalized recommendations.
• Visiting one of our four retail locations, where Customer Service Representatives can demonstrate the Surry Stream Now website to help determine the best streaming service based on individual viewing habits.  Visit the Stream Now site at www.gostreamnow.com/surry

We are here to make the transition to streaming as seamless as possible!

Customers can visit www.gostreamnow.com/surry

• Find the best streaming video options based on viewing habits.
• Determine the internet speed needed for your home to ensure a smooth streaming experience.

This resource makes it easy to choose the right streaming service and internet plan for your needs.

Streaming video applications, such as YouTube TV, Hulu, and DirecTV Streaming, deliver video services over the internet to various devices, including:

• Smart TVs
• Computers
• Tablets
• Cell phones

Customers can get assistance in choosing the best streaming option by:

• Calling our Customer Service Representatives at 336-374-5021 or 336-787-5543.
• Visiting one of our four retail locations, where our team can demonstrate the Surry Stream Now website to help determine the best streaming service for their needs

• Upgrade your Internet Plan
  • Call 336-374-5021 or 336-787-5433 to speak with a customer service representative about the best internet speed package for streaming.
  • Visit one of our four locations to discuss upgrade options

Customers should return all video equipment, including:

• Set-top boxes
• DVR’s/DTA devices
• Remote Controls
• Cabling

Please return your video equipment to any of our four locations (Dobson, Elkin, Mount Airy or Reeds)

If a technician from our company finds video equipment while working at your location on a future service call, they can remove and return it as part of their service after the video service has been turned off.

Fore more information, contact customer service at 336-374-5021 or 336-787-5433.

No, the remote controls provided by Surry Communications/Piedmont Communications for traditional video services will not operate your new Smart TV or streaming devices.

You will need the original remote control that came with the smart TV or streaming device to navigate and use streaming video applications.