February 17, 2009...

[alexpgp]

From CNET:

But the federal digital broadcasting mandate is turning the usual market-based mechanism of technology adoption by consumers on its head. It artificially compresses into months an analog-to-digital transition that would take years if market forces were allowed to operate. Normally, technology adoption involves a choice between competing solutions in the marketplace, but the federal mandate removes from consumers the power to choose and buy technology. Consumers now will have no choice in continuing to receive free over-the-air broadcasting. By February 17, 2009, those who wish to continue watching TV will have had to purchase something new, such as a digital-capable TV or a special conversion box. Or they may abandon the free over-the-air model altogether and buycable or satellite services. If they don't, television will go dark forthem.

What the article fails to mention is that this Federal mandate did not spring out of a vacuum, nor was it the result of some kind of popular mandate, as more than 50 million people still get their TV over the air. So that would leave... let's see... the broadcasting industry (or the entertainment industry - is there really a difference?) as the prime mover behind this transition.

How deliciously fitting it would be if some significant portion of that 50 million were to swear off TV forever, rather than grovel so as not to give up The Price Is Right or American Idol. It'd be a just reward for the greedy minions of the broadcast/entertainment complex.

Cheers...

Comments

[mallorys-camera.livejournal.com]

How deliciously fitting it would be if some significant portion of that 50 million were to swear off TV forever, rather than grovel so as not to give up The Price Is Right or American Idol.

Dream on...

It's always about ways to make people buy new technology that strictly speaking, they don't need.