Thursday, September 4, 2014

Why I Quit Cable

We gave up on cable a little over a year ago and switched to an Apple TV/Netflix combo which has suited us quite well.  However, we received an advertisement in the mail yesterday from Comcast claiming that we could add a DVR and 140 channels for only $10.00 more a month (we still get our internet through Comcast).  The only thing I truly missed about not having cable was being able to watch Gopher football and basketball games from the comfort of my own home.  To me, this would be worth the extra cost.  So, I decided to investigate.  The following is a transcript of my "live chat" with Comcast today:

Chris: Hi, what questions can I answer about upgrading your service or adding a new line of service?
You: I am currently paying $79.95 for internet only. Am I reading your current deals correctly that I can add 140 cable channels, get a HD box and DVR for only $10 more a month via the xfinity double play?
Chris: I'd be happy to provide you the information regarding on your concern. To better assist you I would like to ask a few questions.
Chris: Thank you for being a Comcast customer! What services do you currently have with us?
You: internet
Chris: Prices and plans vary by location, however we can definitely take a look at the available offers in your area. May I please have your complete address and zip code?
You: (I gave my address)
Chris: Thank you for providing your complete address. Please hold on as I check the address that you provided.
Chris: I apologize, I am still looking at your address.
Chris: Thank you for waiting. I apologize, however the package that you are looking to have is already expired. Just to clarify, do you want to keep your current Internet Service?
You: yes i want to keep my internet. the package i am looking at says it expires on 9/22/14
You: it is called the starter xf double play
Chris: I apologize, however it is expired on last June. To recommend the best TV package, may I ask what particular channels are you looking to have?
Chris: How are things coming along?
You: this is copied from your website: Offer ends 9/22/14 and is limited to new residential customers. Not available in all areas. Requires subscription to Digital Starter TV and Blast!® Internet service. (I copied all the legalese here but blah, blah, blah)
You: I don't think we are looking at the same package, as this one clearly states the expiration date is 9/22/14
Chris: Please hold on as I get the information for you.
Chris: Thank you for waiting. Yes, you are right. The plan that you have selected is really fantastic! To make sure it meets all of your entertainment needs, what types of things do you do online?
You: Where can I see what television channelss are included with this package?
Chris: How are things coming along?
You:  Where can I see what television channels are included with this package?
Chris: Are you still with me?
You: Yes, I have asked twice, and now a third time: Where can I see what television channels are included with this package?
You: are you still with me, chris?
Chris: I haven’t heard from you in a while. Would you like to continue to chat?
You: maybe if i speak louder :WHERE CAN I FIND WHAT CHANNELS ARE INCLUDED IN THIS PACKAGE???
Chris: I would be happy to assist you today, however I'm afraid that if I don't hear from you I will not be able to stay and keep this chat open.
You: Chris, are you in a tunnel? Is your internet connection bad? Do you use Comcast for your internet connection?
Chris: Thank you for visiting Comcast today. I hope you'll come visit us again soon.
Chris: Have a great day.

Now I remember one of the reasons we dropped cable.  I'll be at the bar watching the Gophers on Saturday if anyone wants to join.


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