Verizon has now announced some major changes to its various TV and internet plans. The changes appear to be an attempt to appease those who might be considering leaving its services for alternate cord-cutter options.
Verizon, like many other traditional providers, have had to deal with an increased number of subscribers who have cut the cord in favor of cheaper or more transparent pricing. In an attempt to sway potential leavers from leaving and maybe even attract new customers, Verizon today announced it was “disrupting” the market by changing the way it offers cable and internet.
Essentially, Verizon has now cut the cords that tied people into annual contracts. Most notably, Verizon is no longer offering cheaper prices to those who bundle services together, while also removing any hidden or additional fees that might have previously been in place.
As far as TV goes, Verizon says consumers can now choose any five channels they want (from almost 200 channels) and the system will then fill out the package by select another 120 channels the user is expected to like. Regardless of which primary channels are selected, users will still have access to local channels, including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, Telemundo and Univision. What’s more, users can change their five primary channels whenever they want, or cancel at a month’s notice considering the annual contracts are now a thing of the past.
Those who want an even more robust TV package can opt for a “More Fios” plan, while those in need of less, can opt for YouTube TV as their Verizon TV solution. Overall, the prices of the various TV plans range from $50 to $90 per month, and again, those prices – with the exception of taxes – don’t include any additional fees, such as regional sports fees.
Verizon goes all-in on mix and match
Instead of forcing users into bundles through lower promotional pricing, Verizon will now let users choose the services they want through mixing and matching. Those who just want TV or internet, can get it and pay the individual monthly costs. Alternatively, they can still bundle services together, including phone, and just pay the collective monthly price.
Generally, this appears to be reminiscent of the approach taken by live TV streaming services as Verizon will no longer determine prices based on an upfront commitment or how many services you opt in to.
However, that’s not to say the price advertised is exactly what you’ll pay now. For example, and with the exception of YouTube TV, the Verizon TV packages typically require the use of the company’s own set-top box and that still incurs a monthly equipment charge.
Source: Verizon
