Verizon FiOS Eliminates Analog Television in New Jersey

May 19, 2008

Verizon is phasing out a small number of analog channels on its FiOS (fiber optics system) television service in New Jersey. The move comes months ahead of the digital transition mandated by the federal government to take place in February 2009. At that time, all television networks will stop broadcasting in analog signal and begin broadcasting exclusively in digital format.

Verizon's Analog Channels Were Duplicates to Digital FiOS Offerings

Until this time, Verizon provided these analog channels - which were duplicates of its digital FiOS channels - to allow digital subscribers to view limited programming in an analog format needing to use a set-top box. The company also has a small number of customers who subscribe to a service that offers only these duplicate analog channels.

To make the transition easier for its New Jersey customers, Verizon will provide them with a free digital adapter to enable their television sets to receive the FiOS signals.

Customers may also choose to upgrade to a set-top box that lets them see more programming - including high-definition channels - and enables full-featured, interactive services, like video-on-demand programming and Verizon's interactive media guide.

Verizon Phasing Out Analog Months before Digital Transition Deadline

Mark Adams, Verizon's marketing director for the New Jersey region explains why the company chose to take this step: "As we phase out our local analog simulcasts this year, we want to make sure that our small number of affected customers can continue receiving this programming on sets they are using without a set-top box. We're reaching out to those customers now to help them get their free converter box from us so they can enjoy high-quality digital programming on every set in the home."

Verizon will phase out the analog channels on a regional basis. FiOS TV customers in New Jersey will see the transition starting June 2. Customers have been notified in advance by letters, e-mails, and phone calls from the company. Verizon also has set up a dedicated Web site, http://www.verizon.com/godigital, to provide answers to common questions about all-digital service.