Comcast offers deals to new switch-over customers

Comcast, the largest US cable operator, is offering special deals of free television for a year in a bid to win new subscribers ahead of a government-mandated digital TV switch-over on February 17. The free cable basic cable programing will only be free if the new customers sign up for another paid Comcast service, such as Internet or phone. Comcast said new customers who choose not to subscribe to additional Comcast services can get basic cable for just $10 a month for a full year. Cable companies are hoping to win new customers with the government-mandated switch-off of analog TV signals next year. Households who currently watch TV for free over-the-air will no longer receive signals. They believe that customers will opt for the "easier" cable option, which does not require any new equipment.