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Changes Coming Soon to United’s IFE System
Jesse Tabit June 10, 2016
Though the project has seen delays, United Airlines says its move to outfit most of its Boeing 737 aircraft with a new in-flight entertainment system will be finished in a matter of weeks. On its newer domestic aircraft, United is using a system that allows flyers to use their own devices – smartphones, laptops, and tablets – to stream content, meaning the planes will not have TV screens located in the seatbacks.
Though the carrier’s older 737s will keep their DirecTV product, United will no longer use that system on its new aircraft.
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[Photo: United Airlines]
I'd much rather prefer seat-back IFE because then I can watch something while eating or using the tray table for my laptop. For this reason, I always aim to book on 787, 767, or 737 when possible. I know it's a first world problem; nevertheless, it's one that is important to me on longer domestic flights. (Although, the world won't be over if I don't have it. ha) Their current implementation of personal device entertainment seems clumsy and lackluster. Connectivity issues exist as well; although, their system does seem to be improving. Their new tray tables with some type of device holder seems kinda meh, as well. I just feel that United's implementation of PDE somewhat detracts from the experience (especially when flying a premium cabin). It feels kind of cheap and second-rate. But, at least it's something--it could be worse.
I've flown more planes on United with their direcTV than without. Right now it's pretty inconsistent on whether I'd get complimentary IFE or not on my flight
Did these streaming services grow more sophisticated? They were bad enough when only few people used them ... how do they handle hordes of users being logged in? Also hope such systems won't come to products like the Nightmareliner where there isn't any space for a tablet .....
Without IFE screens onboard, the bring your own device offering is a second rate service amenity. It cheapens the customer experience.
The streaming movies and shows are C- level.