The Weather Channel is increasing the subscription price for its TV app, a move reflecting the broader challenges legacy media faces in the streaming era. This price hike, which may reach $20 per month for some users representing a 67 percent increase, highlights the difficulty traditional broadcasters have in establishing a profitable streaming model.

The company is contending with a crowded market for weather information. Beyond its own TV app, consumers can access weather data through Weather.com, mobile apps from a separate entity owned by Francisco Partners, and even smart home devices. This increased competition strains The Weather Channel's ability to fund the technology, staff, and infrastructure required for real-time reporting.

For consumers, the price increase makes The Weather Channel's dedicated app a less attractive option compared to readily available free alternatives. This situation underscores the ongoing struggle for established media companies to adapt their value proposition and pricing to the current digital landscape.