So, from time to time, I will publish my responses here in this new column called, "Ask Swanni!"
Q. Have you heard the rumors of a TiVo HD DVR for under $300? Are they true -- Carolyn T.
TiVo has said publicly that it plans to offer a less expensive HD DVR before year's end. (The current TiVo Series HD DVR retails for $799.) So I think it's quite likely that you'll see a $299 TiVo HD DVR in the next three months, if not sooner.
Q. TiVo and Amazon are offering movie downloads on the TiVo DVR, but they aren't in high-def so why should anyone care? -- David K.
I think you're on to something. While many people are still content with watching movies at "DVD quality," the future is high-def. TiVo, Amazon and every other company invading the TV download space must figure out how to offer high-def downloads in an efficient and convenient way. Microsoft's XBox 360 now has HD downloads but reports indicate that it can take several hours. That won't cut it.
Q. Do you think cable and satellite operators will keep charging extra for HDTV programming in 2009 when all stations go digital? -- Josh K.
When the nation switches to Digital TV in 2009, that doesn't mean every channel will be in high-def. Digital and HDTV are not the same thing. However, many digital channels will be in high-def by that time so I think you'll see an evolution in programming packaging. The TV providers will likely offer their high-def lineups in programming tiers much like they now do for analog channels.
Q. Liberty Media is talking about buying all of DIRECTV instead of just a controlling share. Do you see that changing DIRECTV as a company or its HDTV plans? -- Karl M.
I'll address the High-Definition angle. No, I don't think it will matter much if Liberty owns 100 percent or just 40 percent, which it obtained in a stock swap with News Corp. (The Liberty-News deal is expected to be finalized before year's end.) Either way, DIRECTV will continue its plan to expand its HD lineup to 100 channels by the end of this year and even more in 2008.
Click to read Part Two of Ask Swanni!
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Phillip Swann is
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