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Time Warner adds Discovery HD suite in Columbia, SC
It's been quite the day for Time Warner Cable, which has not only blessed North Texas with 11 new HD channels (though snubbed those in the outskirts mightily), it also found time to gift the Triad region in North Carolina with the Discovery HD suite. Lo and behold, Columbia, South Carolina has received those very same four channels, too. We're talking Animal Planet HD, Science Channel HD, Discovery Channel HD and TLC HD, but alas, all four are being delivered via SDV, so HD TiVo users are currently out of luck. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, ebrough]
TWC adds 11 HD channels in Dallas, Texas region
Considering that Time Warner Cable has been beefing up the HD lineups in San Antonio, Austin, Waco and other areas of Central Texas, it's about time the slighted Dallas region got their due. As of today, TWC is dropping 11 high-def newcomers in Dallas, Plano, Richardson and Mesquite, and we're told that other local cities "should get the new feeds, and more, in the next nine months." According to company spokesman Gary Underwood, North Texas "should have around 50 HD channels, not counting HD video-on-demand, by the end of the year." These 11 bring the total in the area up to 31, which catapults it above FiOS TV but still situates it well below U-verse and the two sat providers. Still, you lucky North Texas folks are some of the few enjoying March Madness on Demand in high-def, so click on through for the list of newbies and hush that complaining for at least, oh, a week day or two. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Len]
TWC adds Discovery suite to Piedmont Triad region of NC
In a move sure to make those in the neighboring Triangle exceedingly envious, Time Warner Cable has seen fit to add in the Discovery suite to its HD lineup just down I-40 in Greensboro / High Point / Winston-Salem. As of today, subscribers in the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina can turn their attention to TLC HD (546), Animal Planet HD (547), Science Channel HD (548) and Discovery Channel HD (549). Here in Raleigh, we're still doing without, but hopefully TWC will string the newcomers down sooner rather than later. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Prime and Mike]
Comcast, Time Warner, Sprint, and Clearwire could join forces on WiMAX, help from Google and Intel possible
As unlikely as this sounds, rivals Time Warner Cable and Comcast are apparently in talks with Sprint and Clearwire over establishing a nationwide WiMAX network. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, the companies are scrambling to get a deal wrapped up by CTIA -- which takes place at the beginning of April -- and could see an influx of cash from both Google and Intel in excess of $1 billion. It seems the odd-couple partners are keen to cut into heavyweights Verizon and AT&T's ever-expanding range of at-home and mobile services by offering their own take on a high-speed data and voice system to consumers. Clearly this combination would deflate AT&T and Verizon's big FCC bandwidth-nabs a little (and it explains why the cable players weren't interested in the 700MHz auction), but it's questionable whether this rag-tag team of wild card players would seriously court the public's eye. They say America loves an underdog -- even if it's a gigantic, super-rich, corporate underdog.[Via mocoNews]
Time Warner Cable brings Discovery suite to Albany, New York
Just days after Time Warner Cable gifted Rochester-area citizens with the Discovery suite of HD channels, an eagle-eyed reader located in Albany has noticed that those very channels have also joined their lineup. Effective immediately, those located in and around the capital of the great state of New York can check out Science Channel HD (1825), Animal Planet HD (1835), Discovery Channel HD (1836) and TLC HD (1844). At this point, we're wondering if TWC will ever provide a noticeable boost to the ridiculously deprived Manhattan EPG, but three cheers for Albany, regardless. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Mike]
Time Warner Cable signs up for March Madness VOD
Following Comcast's footsteps, Time Warner Cable has just made it official: it will also be offering its subscribers CBS Sports' March Madness on demand content free of charge. In case you weren't already aware, this will allow customers to access game highlights and historical NCAA March Madness vignettes via video-on-demand, but unfortunately, only users in North Texas will see said programming in high-definition. Now, more than ever, the rest of the TWC nation could really use HD VOD, eh? [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
TWC bringing Discovery suite to Rochester, New York
As the lineup changes continue to emerge in New York, along comes word that the Discovery suite of high-def channels are set to land in Rochester tomorrow. That's right, nary a month after picking up History Channel HD, HGTV HD and Lifetime Movie Network HD, you folks in the upstate can soon look forward to seeing Discovery Channel HD (1036), TLC HD (1023), Science Channel HD (1024) and Animal Planet HD (1068). No word on whether or not these will be delivered via SDV, but we're guessing so. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Mike S.]
TWC brings more HD to Staten Island and Syracuse, NY
Just as we expected, Time Warner Cable is delivering five new HD channels to its all-digital Staten Island market, and while midtown NYC gets left out (again), folks braving the chill up in Syracuse have three more reasons to stay indoors. Aside from gaining NY1 on slot 701, Staten Island residents will also see the Discovery suit showing up in their EPG, which includes Science Channel HD (775), TLC HD (752), Discovery HD (766) and Animal Planet HD (786). As for Syracuse, locals in the region can now tune into History Channel HD (818), TBS HD (822) and CNN HD (824). As for surrounding areas, we haven't heard anything official concerning the possibility of these networks spreading, but as always, keep a sharp eye on that channel lineup and drop us a line if any newcomers pop up. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Vin P. and Michael V.]
TWC customers to see Cincinnati Reds in HD this season?
Considering that every single New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays matchup will be seen in HD in their respective markets, it's understandable for Reds fans to long for more than Time Warner Cable delivered last season. During 2007, TWC failed to carry the initial 33 Cincinnati Reds games on FSN Ohio in HD, but according to Karen Baxter, public affairs director for the carrier's southwest Ohio division, it's hoping to "be able to offer the Reds in HDTV this year." Notably, Insight brought these very games to its Northern Kentucky subscribers last year in HD, making Ohio residents that much more upset to be left in the pixelated dark. Still, considering that DirecTV and DISH Network has access to all 71 FSN Ohio HDTV games, we're hoping Time Warner steps up to the proverbial plate here and gives the local Reds fans a clearer picture this go 'round -- particularly since we know the channel itself is already on the way. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Image courtesy of Megan Construction]
TWC brings National Geographic HD, History Channel HD to Green Bay, WI
With Time Warner Cable blasting out quite a few new HD channels of late, folks in Green Bay / Appleton, Wisconsin are probably feeling a bit left out. After today, we have all ideas they'll still feel slighted, but at least they can frown and grumble while watching one of two new HD channels. Effective immediately, subscribers in the area can tune into National Geographic HD and History Channel HD on slots 723 and 724, respectively. Here's to hoping for a few more up your way, eh? [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Mark]
Digital realignment in Ohio could wreak havoc on TWC DVRs
Although Time Warner has been handing out heaps of HD channels in the state of Ohio here lately, some subscribers could face a few headaches in the coming days. As of this week, the carrier is realigning its digital channels in order to "create a uniform lineup across all of its systems, including those it acquired from Adelphia." Unfortunately for customers, this means that they'll have to reprogram their DVR to record shows / series after the changes occur, and worse, it could affect some of the content already on there. When asked if the change would erase stored programs, a TWC spokesman (unsurprisingly) replied: "We're not sure." Weirder still, the company has actually gone so far as to post a how-to guide of transferring saved television shows from your DVR onto another medium (VHS, DVD, etc.), and it's encouraging subscribers to do so to ensure they don't lose any content. Um, thanks? [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
TWC brings four new HD channels to Syracuse, New York
Finally, Time Warner Cable subscribers in the Syracuse region can indulge in a few new HD options of their own. It's about time too, seeing that Rochester, Albany and a slew of areas around NYC (Manhattan notwithstanding) have been getting their share of late. Nevertheless, the cable carrier has announced today that four more HD options will be joining the EPG: Discovery HD (819), TLC HD (825), Animal Planet HD (831) and Science Channel HD (832). According to Time Warner spokesperson Jeff Unaitis, the "recent launch of switched-digital technology is allowing [the firm] to reclaim bandwidth and to add more content," so we're instantly curious to know if CableCARD users in the area are able to tune in to these additions.
FSN Ohio HD, National Geographic HD coming to TWC Cincinnati / Dayton
Make no mistake, Time Warner Cable is showing the great state of Ohio some serious love. Just days after four new HD channels were announced for the Columbus market and four others arrived in Cleveland, e-mails are now being received by TWC subscribers in the Dayton / Cincinnati region that confirm National Geographic HD and FSN Ohio HD are on the way. Yep, starting on March 25th, customers in the aforementioned locales will see Nat Geo HD on slots 757 (Dayton) / 983 (Cincy) and FSN Ohio HD on channel 768 (Dayton) / 968 (Cincy). Alright TWC, enough with pampering Ohio -- you've plenty of other markets to service, too. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Dayton Guy]
HD VOD atop list of changes coming to TWC New York / New Jersey
Just days after we learned of a few channel transformations coming up in the TWC New York / New Jersey markets, along comes word that quite a few other alterations are in the pipeline. For starters, HD VOD is slated to launch on May 15th in Staten Island (which currently has an "all digital" system), and other markets (Brooklyn / Queens, Manhattan, Hudson Valley and New Jersey) should receive the service before the end of Q3 2008. Additionally, Start Over and Quick Clips will reportedly be coming to all of the aforementioned systems on July 1st, but a soft launch is apt to sneak in a month prior. Still not enough? No worries -- Time Warner will also be busting out a new service dubbed Virtual Video Store, which will supposedly offer up a library of older movies for rent at just $1.99 apiece. Now, let's see if TWC delivers, shall we? [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
FSN New York becoming MSG Plus HD, more HD coming to Staten Island
We're not certain if this change will affect more than a few key areas of New York and New Jersey (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bergen, Mt. Vernon and Hudson Valley to be precise), but Fox Sports Net New York is set to become MSG Plus in mid-March. As expected, FSN NY HD will also become MSG Plus HD, but channel slots on TWC aren't expected to change. Around the same time, YES HD in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island will be relocating from channel 730 to 753, while NY1 HD gets added to the Time Warner Cable lineup in Woodside and Staten Island (only, unfortunately) on slot 701. For subscribers on Staten Island, you can also look forward to seeing Discovery HD (766), Animal Planet HD (786), TLC HD (752) and Science Channel HD (755). Needless to say, Manhattan gets the proverbial shaft yet again, but we'll keep you posted if things change. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
TWC transitioning three HD channels in Albany to SDV, CableCARD users out of luck
Uh oh, here we go again. Earlier this month, we heard a chorus of complaints from CableCARD Bright House customers that had four of their HD channels snatched out from under them, and now it looks like Time Warner Cable subscribers in Albany, New York will soon be dealing with the same. According to a recent note sent out to CableCARD users, the carrier plans to start delivering TBS HD, A&E HD and Universal HD via switched digital video (SDV) on March 18th. Considering that we're still waiting for support for SDV on CableCARD devices, TWC is advising these users to come on in and join the dark side -- er, pick up one of its own HD set-top-boxes that can handle two-way services (which SDV is). So, here's your options: concede and pick up a box (if only temporarily) from TWC, or stick with your CableCARD setup and go without this trio. Check the full letter after the jump. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Mark P.]
TWC actually expanding HD options in Queens / Brooklyn, NY
After Time Warner Cable apparently pulled a fast one on subscribers in Queens and Brooklyn, NY by advertising its Woodside additions to the rest of the community -- but then not following through -- we've pictorial evidence that those newcomers are indeed making their way around. 'Course, it's a few weeks later than expected, but we suppose it's better than CNN HD, MHD, History Channel HD, A&E HD, Food Network HD, Lifetime Movies HD, HGTV HD, Versus / Golf HD and NHL Network HD not making the rounds. As of now, we're seeing that the channels have indeed been added to the EPG, but there's no video to go along just yet. Still, we're expecting 'em to go live anytime, so hold tight and keep an eye on your set. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Vin P.]Update: As of February 29th, the channels have been removed from the EPG in Queens / Brooklyn. The latest word from TWC is "coming soon." Bummer.
Time Warner Cable adds three Starz HD channels in Albany, NY
Starz Edge, Comedy, and Kids & Family all went HD last summer, but of course, it's up to your carrier to actually get on the ball and snatch up what's out there. Thankfully for those in the capital city of New York, the trio is finally available to you on Time Warner Cable. More specifically, subscribers can catch Starz Comedy HD on channel 1892, Starz Kids & Family HD on 1893 and Starz Edge HD on 1894. A small upgrade, sure, but a welcome one nonetheless. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Mark P.]
Hallmark Movie Channel HD headed to Time Warner Cable
Nothing too groundbreaking here, but for fans of Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel, you can rest assured that it'll remain on Time Warner Cable systems for awhile longer. Reportedly, the cable operator has just renewed its distribution agreement with Crown Media Holdings for "a multi-year term." Under the new deal, TWC "will have the right to continue its distribution of Hallmark Channel as well as the opportunity for distribution of both the standard-definition and high-definition versions of Hallmark Movie Channel." If you'll recall, we were previously left in the dark as to where HMC HD would actually launch -- now, it seems we have our answer. If only things were this easy with NFL Network... [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
TWC customers in Rochester, NY pick up trio of new HD options
Just weeks after Time Warner Cable subscribers in Rochester, New York picked up TBS HD and National Geographic HD, along comes news that three more newcomers are on the way. As of February 26th, said customers will reportedly pick up Lifetime Movie Network HD, HGTV HD and History Channel HD on channels 1012, 1056 and 1063, respectively. Better still, we're also hearing that MSG HD will show up in March, while NHL HD, Food Network HD, CNN HD, Science Channel HD, TLC HD, Outdoor Channel HD, Discovery HD and Animal Planet HD were listed as "coming soon." As for Manhattan, the wait for justice continues. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family][Thanks, Claude]
