ESPN's Play To Make ISPs Pay 355
lochii sends us to Wired for reporting on ESPN's game plan to extract royalties from all ISPs, for a "license" for their users to view ESPN video. Currently, according to ESPN, 40% of US Internet users connect through ISPs who are paying the (undisclosed) fees; others are unable to view the content. Quoting: "This is a reversal of the model pushed by some major broadband companies that would like to charge content companies for the right to use their pipes. If other full-length video providers like Hulu and HBO get in on the act, the time could be approaching when you'll choose your Internet service based on what selection of content it offers. Eventually, popular non-video websites might follow suit. Imagine a future water cooler conversation over broadband choice: 'I went with Comcast 'cause they get Yahoo.'"
Re:Net Neutrality (Score:5, Funny)
Re:Commuters and travelers (Score:2, Funny)
Given the way the game has gone the last five years, you don't need to worry about the score. For that matter, given the rabid hatred that comes out of Columbus, you don't need to check the score either. Just mention that you're a Michigan fan and an OSU football fan will make damn sure you know it, and will remind you of it for weeks to come...
Re:I thought we already had this option... (Score:4, Funny)
Nice to see Capitalism is continuing to make things more efficient, eliminate waste and allowing more people to have access to more stuff for less effort. Clearly, it's a great vehicle for generating wealth and plenty.