One of the great success stories in pay television over the past five years is the FiOS TV product offered by Verizon. Why has this product become so popular with consumers? Is FiOS TV the right choice for you? How does FiOS stack up against satellite options like Dish Network?
With FiOS TV service, there is no need for a satellite dish. Thats because Verizon is investing billions to replace the old copper telephone network with fiber optic lines. Fiber TV from Verizon brings more than 100 HD channels plus thousands of on demand titles right into your living room, so its no wonder many have made the jump away from cable and satellite and over to FiOS. Another reason why FiOS TV is popular is the bundling option, as customers can rely on one company for their local and long distance calling along with blazing fast internet access, again powered by the all fiber network. Current FiOS triple play package deals start from $90 a month with a two year agreement.
One of the main obstacles for those interested in the service is the availability of FiOS. While the product was initially deployed five years ago, it of course takes time to place all of the necessary fiber into the neighborhoods served by Verizon. For example, the FiOS project in New York City is expected to take about five more years to complete, but when finished will finally offer most city dwellers an alternative to cable companies like Time Warner and Cablevision. But if FiOS is available, what should you consider before making a switch.
One factor to consider is whether you want to be in a contract in order to get the low rates offered with FiOS TV. Verizon has moved most of their deals to a model similar to satellite TV companies, meaning if you terminate service before twenty four months, you will have an early termination charge. Most cable TV companies offer service on a month to month basis, though some like Time Warner have begun to offer lower prices for customers who agree to a contract. If you are planning on staying in your home for at least a few years, its hard to beat FiOS TV packages when it comes to the content and pricing they offer when compared with cable.
FiOS television service also stacks up well against competitors Dish Network and DIRECTV. One of the main selling points of satellite service has been the HD channel counts offered. Both Dish and DIRECTV claim to offer in the area of 150 high definition channels, but upon examination these numbers don’t quite add up. Their statistics are inflated when you look at the pay per view options they count, while FiOS TV offers a legitimate 100 HD channels with their Ultimate HD package.
Several other features are also included with FiOS TV, including free Video on Demand service. Depending on your Verizon package, you will have access to up to 17,000 titles every month. FiOS widgets also allow you to get the latest news, weather and sports right on your TV screen. Other interactive features through FiOS TV include Facebook and Twitter access, and the FiOS DVR which can be used throughout your home on multiple TVs.
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