The Federal Communications Commission recently announced a proposal that could push the cable set-top box into a makeover. The idea is to allow cable and satellite subscribers to pick the devices they use to watch programming.
Customers currently get boxes through cable companies, paying an average of $231/year to lease the device. The new proposal could have huge implications for the industry, allowing companies like Google, Apple, or Amazon to expand their reach with devices of their own that could blend the Internet and cable programming. The reactions varied; the tech industry was excited and all for the change while the cable industry stayed hesitant and criticized it. The F.C.C. explains their reasoning saying the focus is on improving people’s television experience. They want to allow innovators to create and give consumers the choice. The agency’s five commissioners will vote on the proposal mid-month, and if approved, consumers will immediately see its effects on their wallets. Consumers will be able to start using just one device to suit all their Internet streaming and cable television watching needs.
To learn more about the proposal, visit here.
