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Verizon Wireless has updated its V Cast mobile video service for cell phones and rebranded the offering as simply Verizon Video. But it's more than just a name change: The revamped service also brings some good news—and possibly bad news—for Verizon subscribers.
The good news: Subscribers will have access to more than 250 complete episodes of shows such as Bones, CSI, Glee, and NCIS, and sporting events from outlets including ABC, CBS, Comedy Central, NBC, and the NFL network. Even better is that unlike the old V Cast service, the revamped Verizon Video doesn't require a monthly commitment. A mere $3 will allow your smart phone 24-hour access to Verizon's video library of shows. (A $10 monthly subscription is needed to access premium content such as Indy car racing.)
The potential bad news: Verizon Video is an Android app that apparently doesn't yet work on all the Google-powered smart phones in Verizon's stable. And initial reports from Verizon Video users indicate slow or stuttering performance as well as the inability to work over Wi-Fi networks.
That could mean even worse news for video addicts newly subscribed to Verizon Wireless. If the application is forced to stream digital videos using Verizon's wireless networks, subscribers not grandfathered into an unlimited data plan could soon bump into Verizon's new wireless data caps—and additional overcharges. (See "Tiered data plans won't change bills for most Verizon smart-phone users" for our breakdown.)
Still, if you're waiting in a doctor's office and need your Desperate Housewives fix, the new Verizon Video could be an interesting video-on-demand option.
If you're a Verizon Wireless subscriber, does the new service have any appeal for you—especially if you don't have an unlimited data plan?
Verizon Wireless Raises the Bar for Quality Mobile Video With Verizon Video [Verizon via PR Newswire]
Verizon Video launches. Bandwidth capped buyers beware. [IT World]
—Paul Eng
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