Many are longing for the day when cable packages are being unbundled. Some doubt it will happen - but we may know sooner than you think. FIOS announced a few weeks ago that it will offer starter packages that don't include a lot of what is currently included in basic packages - like ESPN. I don't think there is any cable or satellite package that does not include the basic ESPN channel.
ESPN and others are suing FIOS to prevent this. I am trying to study the claim, but it is all caught up in the regulatory rules regarding the "connection" between those that create content (ESPN, etc. ) and the distributors.
Of course, other ESPN channels can be purchased in a variety of upgrades - each upgrade usually includes multiple new channels. The success of the SEC network was its ability to have its channel be included as part of a "bundle" - and not as a separate fee for one channel. So, like the BTN, many of us have these conference channels because we were forced to get them because they were attached to something we actually wanted.
The decision by HBO to offer real time streaming of its channel is creating change. Adding HBO to basic may be cheaper than buying the stream version, but HBO is going after those who have no cable at all. FIOS is going after the "no cable" crowd also by offering a much cheaper and smaller basic backage.
The failed merger between Comcast and Time Warner shows the state of flux of this industry. If FIOS is successful and there is basic cable without ESPN, the resulting possibilities could be a huge shake up in the industry. Not sure what happens when armageddon occurs.
ESPN and others are suing FIOS to prevent this. I am trying to study the claim, but it is all caught up in the regulatory rules regarding the "connection" between those that create content (ESPN, etc. ) and the distributors.
Of course, other ESPN channels can be purchased in a variety of upgrades - each upgrade usually includes multiple new channels. The success of the SEC network was its ability to have its channel be included as part of a "bundle" - and not as a separate fee for one channel. So, like the BTN, many of us have these conference channels because we were forced to get them because they were attached to something we actually wanted.
The decision by HBO to offer real time streaming of its channel is creating change. Adding HBO to basic may be cheaper than buying the stream version, but HBO is going after those who have no cable at all. FIOS is going after the "no cable" crowd also by offering a much cheaper and smaller basic backage.
The failed merger between Comcast and Time Warner shows the state of flux of this industry. If FIOS is successful and there is basic cable without ESPN, the resulting possibilities could be a huge shake up in the industry. Not sure what happens when armageddon occurs.
