Vizio had originally gotten rid of all screen apps in 2016, relying on "Google's Chromecast technology to control playback from mobile devices." The company added apps back to the TV screens in 2017. "WatchFree is a next-generation streaming service with an easy-to-navigate, cable-like interface that delivers creative and thoughtful content selections," said Vizio chief technology officer Bill Baxter. Pluto chief executive Tom Ryan added that, "from hit TV shows to blockbuster movies, news, sports, lifestyle and more, WatchFree is a game changer for cord-cutting enthusiasts." The Verge reports that, "WatchFree will get its own dedicated input, so it'll have nearly the same prominence as your HDMI inputs and the main SmartCast screen." It noted that the NBC and Fox channels "aren't the actual cable networks," but rather "different versions created for OTT services."