Netflix Blinks, Will Pay Comcast For Network Access

We've mentioned several times the tension between giant streaming sources (especially Netflix), and ISPs (especially Comcast, especially given that it may merge with Time-Warner). Now, Marketwatch reports that Netflix has agreed to pay Comcast (amount undisclosed) for continued smooth access to Comcast's network customers, "a landmark agreement that could set a precedent for Netflix's dealings with other broadband providers, people familiar with the situation said." From the article: "In exchange for payment, Netflix will get direct access to Comcast's broadband network, the people said. The multiyear deal comes just 10 days after Comcast agreed to buy Time Warner Cable TWC -0.79% Inc., which if approved would establish Comcast as by far the dominant provider of broadband in the U.S., serving 30 million households" I wonder how soon until ISPs' tiered pricing packages will become indistinguishable from those for cable TV, with grouped together services that vary not just in throughput or quality guarantees, but in what sites you can reach at each service level, or which sports teams are subject to a local blackout order.

Re:If Comcast were Exxon

[Hognoxious]

I don't see an alternative other than regulation. And regulation reduces profits, so it's communism.

George Washington gave his life to fight against communism in 1776. If you don't believe in profits, you're literally pissing on GW's grave, you bastard!

Just pay up, and if you don't like it then move to North Korea.

Internet Tier Packages

[Daetrin]

"with grouped together services that vary not just in throughput or quality guarantees, but in what sites you can reach at each service level"

Someone came up with a nice prediction of things to come along those lines: http://i.imgur.com/5RrWm.png [imgur.com]