What major technological advancements characterized post-network television?

The major technological advancements that characterized post-network television are best represented by the options of DVR and video-on-demand. DVR (Digital Video Recorder) technology revolutionized the way viewers consumed television by allowing them to record shows and watch them at their convenience, effectively leading to a decline in traditional viewing habits bound by network schedules. This shift was significant as it gave audiences more control over what they watched, when they watched it, and allowed for the skipping of commercials.

Video-on-demand services further transformed the television landscape, enabling viewers to select and stream content at any time, rather than waiting for a scheduled broadcast. This technology paved the way for a more personalized viewing experience, where users could access a vast library of programming instantly.

The other options, while significant, don't encapsulate the most impactful advancements of post-network television as comprehensively as DVR and video-on-demand. For instance, while VCRs and cable access were important earlier technologies that laid the groundwork for modern viewing, they belong to an earlier era of television development. Smart TVs and mobile applications are part of the ongoing evolution of media consumption but do not define the same shift in television viewing habits. Similarly, satellite and online streaming services have significantly influenced viewing practices, but DVR and video-on-demand directly