ockel:JimmyH:ockel:Rikkitic: The default box could always be crippled, with extra charges to add functionality. This seems to be the way Sky does things.
How so? Can you give us an example of this?
The HD Ticket for starters.
Just like every provider except for Lightbox. They all charge extra for HD. Thats not a functionality charge thats a content charge.
Would you say that Netflix are crippling your streaming until you pay the 30% extra for HD?
If there is extra functionality in the SKy box I'd happily pay for it.
Pay extra for accessing the storage reserved for BoxOfficeOnDemand - yes please.
Pay extra for adding USB storage - yes please.
Pay extra to transfer prerecorded shows when the box gives up - yes please.
If there is ANY extra functionality that I can pay for please tell me cos I want more and am happy to pay for the privilege.
With existing and growing competition (thinking post RWC), it may well be that costs do ease, plus extras are free, all to add value. Take telcos, they tend not to increase prices, or to drop prices hugely, they tend to add value, GB, etc.