The FCC permitted cable providers to encrypt basic cable towards the end of last year and now Comcast has detailed its plans for moving ahead with cable encryption. Those who do not use a CableCard enabled device or a Comcast set-top box will need to install an adapter so that they can keep watching encrypted cable. That is why Comcast has already begun telling its subscribers in some markets that it is going to encrypt cable over the coming months. Boxee TV users will also have an adapter available for them.
The adapter boxes for such customers will be offered free for two years, but they have to be requested during the period in which they’re being offered. Those who receive Medicaid have the option of five years. After the relevant time passes, the boxes will bear a monthly rental fee of $.50. The company has said that it will be rolling out basic cable encryption on a market-by-market basis over the next few months. Comcast says this move will provide greater convenience for their customers and will reduce the need for scheduled in-home appointments.
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