Time Warner Cable going for Broke
According to an article by Todd Spangler of Multichannel News, Time Warner Cable is going to be implementing a Metered Internet Service for testing in a limited area of Texas. If the test is successful they intend to change their access plans Nationwide.
With the metered service, customers will be charged an 'overage' fee (Like a cell phone plan) per Gigabyte if they exceed the limit which will be as low as 5 Gigabytes (This is about 3 movies worth at iTunes)
This company is going down a dangerous path with this action, they are simply being greedy and trying to gouge their customers for as much money as they can.
But like throwing a rock in a lake, this will have far-reaching effects if it is successful. Other ISP's have already indicated that they are considering making this change in their own networks (Like Charter High-speed for one).
Having metered access to the Internet will have a significant chilling effect on companies trying to switch to the new "Instant Distribution Method" like Apple's iTunes, Netflix, Blockbuster and Internet Radio just to name a few.
Everyone has gone over their minutes on their cell phone plan at one point or another, and been hit with a ridiculous massive overage charge, unless you want the same thing to happen with your Internet access I strongly suggest that you voice your opinion before it's too late.
If you are would like to show your concern over this issue you can (and should) take the following steps:
- If you are a current customer, Switch to another broadband/TV provider if possible.
- Call the customer service number on your bill (or 972-742-5892) and make it clear that you will drop them if they do this.
- Send them a message using their on-line form
- Write a post about it on your Blog