The Low-Tech Times

Having to Opt Out

I was reading Seth Godin’s opinions this morning on opt-in and opt-out:

Anything that tricks a consumer into paying for something ought to be double opt in.

This got me thinking about how cable companies often give people a free trial of HBO and/or other movie channels when they sign up. After the trial period, customers have to opt-out of the service or are automatically charged. Many people probably just forget to cancel and just start getting billed for HBO.

Is Anything Good On HBO?

It is not clear to me why people are paying for HBO. Many of their hit shows (The Sopranos, Sex in the City, Six Feet Under) have been off the air for a long time. HBO does not even have any shows in Cable’s Top 20. Mostly, HBO just manages to offend viewers.

The Move to Free

Most newspapers are in trouble; these days people want news online for free. But yet, millions of people continue to pay for subscription services like HBO. Free over-the-air tv has come along way since only having a few channels and I think most people will be able to find entertaining programming. During a time when people are struggling, canceling expensive cable subscriptions is a great way to save money.

Take Action

1. Cancel HBO and other undesired subscription cable services.
2. Buy an antenna and see what programs you can get for free!

Highly Recommended Antenna

After testing a few different antennae, the Low-Tech Times strongly recommends this antenna. Click the image below for more information and reviews of the Terk HDTVi antenna.