TWC Launches TV Essentials

Time Warner Cable (www.timewarnercable.com) launched its TV Essentials, a new video-only package designed to address the video needs of customers “facing difficult choices during tough economic times.” The TV Essentials Package will begin commercial trials in the coming weeks in Time Warner Cable's New York City and Northeast Ohio divisions, with further launches planned for 2011.The package includes:* Time Warner's Basic tier (including local channels from ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and PBS)* Representative channels from each major genre: news/information, sports, kids, music, lifestyle, shopping and general entertainment* Two SD digital set-tops, featuring an on-screen guide and Music Choice* Enhanced TV features including StartOver and LookBack (where available)* Access to the library of new release movies through Time Warner On Demand (paid VOD only; no free VOD)The package, valued at $49.99 per month, will be discounted to $39.99 per month in New York City, and $29.95 per month in Northeast Ohio, for a promotional period of 12 months.