NNSquad - Network Neutrality Squad
[ NNSquad ] Comcast removes key VCR-compatibility feature from cable boxes (or pay $20 extra!)
Comcast removes key VCR-compatibility feature from cable boxes (or pay $20 extra!) http://bit.ly/avDSWQ (Slashdot) This story is a bit confusing, and I'd appreciate any in-the-know Comcast subs clarifying it. Reportedly, the previous version of Comcast STB software allowed flexible scheduling of channel changes for VCR recordings (yes, there are still *lots* of people who use VCRs!) But this subscriber says that the capability of scheduling changes "more than a few hours in advance" has been removed unless the sub orders DVR service (at $20/mo?) -- in which case they're far less likely to be using VCRs also. I've seen rate cards showing Comcast charging $20/mo for each additional DVR STB (which seems too high on its face), but do they charge $20/mo for an initial DVR as well? And what possible rationale would there be for removing a flexible channel-changing feature, other than to try push people who didn't really want a DVR into paying a higher monthly fee including DVR service? --Lauren-- NNSquad Moderator