Dish Network introduced a limited-time offer Thursday to get HiDef versions of most “basic service” programming packages for no extra charge “for life.”
The company is advertising a $15 discount on five of its program packages that previously ranged from $40 – $100 per month, now $25 – $85.
A two-year commitment and auto-pay by credit card is required for the offer that runs through Sept. 28.
DirecTV immediately announced a similar offer to waive its monthly $10 HiDef fee on four program packages ranging from $30 – $85 to begin Saturday (June 5) and run for six weeks. DirecTV is also offering two free HiDef upgrades to the DVR and sateillte receiver, which is otherwise $99.
DirecTVÂ has more than 160 HiDef channels and 18.7 million subscribers, compared to Dish’s 200 HiDef channels (57 on-demand) and 14.3 million subscribers.
Neither company waives its HiDef fee for premium movie channels.
— By Scott Hettrick