Verizon is offering a new HD package that is $10 more than the previous HD package, but offers more than two dozen new HD channels. The new plan, called Extreme HD, is offered at $57.99 in most areas. It will replace the $47.99 Premiere package, which will no longer be offered where the Extreme package is available.
But according to Multichannel News customers in the New York City area will get Extreme HD for $47.99. Is the Time Warner Cable competition in NY so extreme that they need to offer it for $10 less than what most of us will pay? Will New York City and New Jersey residents get more of the 100 HD channels Verizon offers in those areas?
And, what will happen the the FiOS Premiere plan? Apparently a new “HD Essentials” package will replace the $47.99 plan and include a whopping 9 HD channels. This includes just the local HD channels. But if I own an HDTV why would I want only 9 HD channels? How about an HD only service comparable to the DISH Turbo plan?
These are questions I hope we will be able to answer soon. As of now, it seems as though if the Extreme HD service becomes available in my area I’ll lose my HD lineup unless I pay more. What’s more disappointing is if I upgrade my HD plan to Extreme HD I’ll lose some standard-def shows I enjoy like Current TV.
