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Highlights
- 2nd price increase in 6 months.
- Assistance programs for low-income households will see a 25% rate increase to $24.99 per month.
- Starting January 30, Spectrum services will see price hikes across various services, from broadcast TV surcharges to HD Box rental fees.
In a move that's becoming all too familiar, Spectrum is once again raising its rates.
Charter Communications, Spectrum's parent company, has begun notifying customers about the upcoming changes.
The most notable of these is a hike in the cost of Spectrum Internet Assist, its low-income internet service, now priced at $24.99 a month. Spectrum cited a significant speed enhancement as justification for the price jump. Meanwhile, the government-funded ACP will run out in April. Leaving those with little means even fewer options.
Spectrum's adjustments are slated to kick in with customer statements beginning January 30.
The details are extensive:
- The broadcast TV surcharge will rise from $23.20 to $25.75 monthly, following a $1 increase in July.
- HD Box rental fees will go up from $10.99 to $12.50 per month.
- Advanced Wi-Fi will see a $2 increase to $7 monthly.
- Entertainment View and Latino View packages will each increase by $3 to $15 monthly.
- Spectrum TV Essentials, a live streaming service, will increase by $5 to $29.99 monthly.
Spectrum defends these increases as part of its commitment to a "customer-focused model," aiming to offer more value and choice. However, the company points to rising programming fees as the culprit behind the escalated costs, a narrative echoed throughout the industry.
The pattern of price hikes is pushing more consumers towards alternatives, such as a mix of selected streaming services and free, ad-supported platforms to meet their entertainment needs.
My take
As I see it, constant price hikes with big companies have become the norm, but they're never easy to digest, especially for crucial services like internet access.
Spectrum's recent announcement, particularly the increase in its low-income internet program, raises concerns about affordability and accessibility.
It's no surprise that traditional cable TV and internet companies are losing customers in droves.
While streaming service prices have also risen, the flexibility to choose and tailor services, combined with the availability of free, ad-supported streaming options, offers a more customizable and potentially cost-effective alternative.
The trend towards cord-cutting is a loud and clear message from consumers: affordability and value are paramount.
Delving into the reasons behind these price hikes and exploring various service options can empower you to make decisions that best align with your budget and lifestyle needs.
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