Verizon Fios

Yes it warrants its own entry.  Anyway, I won't go into detail about stuff I am way late to the game on (on demand, DVR, HD channels), but I do have some other observations.

First, with this, do I even need a computer? The overlap between TV, Phones, Tablets, gaming systems (Xbox, etc) computers is getting silly.    First, with my xBox, I don't even need a second cable box.  I can take my xBox into the bedroom, download the Fios app and stream my TV through the box.  With the xBox, I can watch Netflicks and game online with friends wherever.  With the Fios box, I can log into facebook (not that I would, but this is what the guy showed me), checkout the weather application (on demand by location), search for restaurants and map directions (the mapping feature is off the chains, I can zoom and change map types, satellite, etc).  I can even program my phone and change the channels, etc. from my FREAKING PHONE.

Now bad big brother stuff:  I can view the top 20 shows downloaded in my area and can view several other things that are going on in my area.  So if someone in my complex loves porn, I'd know it.  Further, the guy was told, but did not (I believe him), to download something to my computer.  He said to tell me it was so I can "confirm something", but he said it is really so they can see what I download, browsing history, etc. so they can make "recommendations."  He said he doesn't trust it, but gets in trouble when he doesn't do it.  I think he picks and chooses when he "forgets" or "says the customer wouldn't allow it".  He was a smart guy, very smart and very nice.  But I think he is a little skeptical where things are going at Verizon.  Now I am... Interesting.   But, as has long been the case with technology, conveniences, accessibility, etc., we trade freedoms and privacy.  Wonder where the balance will go.  I digress.