Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) has been busy on the Internet front. The company is increasing the speeds of several of its Internet service tiers in its Northeast Division and is launching DOCSIS 3.1-based gigabit service in the greater Houston area.
Northeast
In the Northeast Division, which includes 14 states from Maine through Virginia and the District of Columbia, Comcast is increasing the speeds of four Internet tiers at no additional cost to the customer. Speed increases will vary based on a customer's current subscription, but most will see an increase of 50 Mbps, the company says. The changes include:
- Blast tier downstream speeds increasing from 200 Mbps to 250 Mbps
- Performance Pro tier downstream speeds increasing from 100 Mbps to 150 Mbps
- Performance tier downstream speeds increasing from 25 Mbps to 60 Mbps
- Performance Starter tier downstream speeds increasing from 10 Mbps to 15 Mbps
"With new devices coming online for consumers every day, we're committed to offering the fastest speeds and the best features and overall experience so our customers can take advantage of the technology available," said Kevin Casey, president of Comcast's Northeast Division. "We've increased speeds 17 times in the last 17 years, and continue to invest to deliver a fast, innovative and reliable experience in and out of the home."
Customers can expect to see the higher speeds this month. Most customers will automatically be upgraded to the new speeds, and will simply need to re-start their modems. Comcast will notify customers who may need to upgrade their modems to receive the new speeds. Those who lease modems from Comcast and require an upgrade can do so for no additional charge by requesting a self-install kit or visiting an Xfinity Store or service center. Those owning modems requiring an upgrade can purchase a new one or lease an Xfinity modem.
Houston
In Houston, Comcast is launching DOCSIS 3.1-based Internet service for residential and business customers throughout the area.
The service requires installation of a new DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. Those who own modems requiring an upgrade can purchase a new one or lease an xFi Advanced Gateway. The everyday price for Residential Gigabit Internet service in Houston is $159.95, without a contract. The company also has a limited time offer for new Internet customers, at $89.99 per month with a one-year agreement. Pricing for current customers with a contract will vary.
Business service tiers include Comcast's "Business Internet 1 Gig" and "Business Internet 500." Pricing for Comcast Business services varies based on a business's location, number of locations to be served, and the services to which the business currently subscribes.