The US cable industry has agreed to halt the transition of nearly all channels from analogue to digital tiers during the first two months of 2009 to minimise potential consumer confusion about the federally mandated switch-off of over-the-air analogue TV signals on February 17, 2009. National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) president Kyle McSlarrow revealed the plan in a letter to Washington lawmakers.

“We applaud cable operators coming forward to help consumers make the transition to digital television with less confusion and at a lower cost,” said the Consumers Union. “This initiative is a welcome first step to help consumers navigate a costly maze of confusion surrounding the DTV transition. While the cable effort doesn't resolve long-term consumer problems with high prices and discriminatory practices, it should offer welcome short-term relief to many consumers.”

Categories: Articles, Broadband, Cable